However, I couldn't have anticipated how many really careful, smart readers are out there. These readers don't just devour the plots and move on. They want to understand the historical, cultural, nautical, and geographic nuances of Patrick O'Brian's work. The high demand for these companion books is a tribute to the caliber of reader that exists in the United States. The words to this rousing march are published at the front of each book in the series.
Contemporary scholars introduce and annotate the books for a modern audience.
And Geoff Hunt, England's master maritime artist, illustrates the covers, bringing to life, as only he can, scenes from the books. For me, one of the most exciting responsibilities of editing the series is bringing together the best talents of our day to help create wonderful new editions. The individual book editors are among the most highly respected academics and members of naval societies around the world. And Hunt is undoubtedly the most acclaimed living painter of historic naval scenes. I read a lot of books to find the very best.