The author of this book was the first woman in history to cross the Atlantic alone nonstop in a small boat--and make it.
"On June 12, 1971, I climbed into my sailboat prepared to flee. I was about to escape from a world that no longer gave me comfort or joy, from a job that bored me, and a love affair that was doomed. I wanted out."
Nicolette Milnes Walker is a petite, pretty girl whose only experience of single-handed sailing before her now famous Atlantic Crossing in the summer of 1971 was a trip from Dale on the southwest tip of Wales, to Ireland. Her cool courage -- "I could find no reason for not going. So I went" -- tempered with a certain recklessness -- "I can hardly swim" -- is revealed on every page of this extremely personal account of her voyage.
Whether she is coping with a broken compass, some smashed rigging, or just a bout of lonliness, the story that comes through is one of extraordinary endeavor in circumstances that are not simply unique but that present conditions of maximum potential stress on a young, intensely lively, and unusual personality.
The result is a book that will give information and pleasure to many, whether a sailing enthusiast or just someone who enjoys and unusual success story.
"On June 12, 1971, I climbed into my sailboat prepared to flee. I was about to escape from a world that no longer gave me comfort or joy, from a job that bored me, and a love affair that was doomed. I wanted out."
Nicolette Milnes Walker is a petite, pretty girl whose only experience of single-handed sailing before her now famous Atlantic Crossing in the summer of 1971 was a trip from Dale on the southwest tip of Wales, to Ireland. Her cool courage -- "I could find no reason for not going. So I went" -- tempered with a certain recklessness -- "I can hardly swim" -- is revealed on every page of this extremely personal account of her voyage.
Whether she is coping with a broken compass, some smashed rigging, or just a bout of lonliness, the story that comes through is one of extraordinary endeavor in circumstances that are not simply unique but that present conditions of maximum potential stress on a young, intensely lively, and unusual personality.
The result is a book that will give information and pleasure to many, whether a sailing enthusiast or just someone who enjoys and unusual success story.
