Beyond the Blue Horizon: How the Earliest Mariners Unlocked the Secrets of the Oceans
"A fascinating story … this is history on a grand scale"—Philip Hoare,Daily Telegraph(UK)"In taking a view of human history from the sea-goer, rather than from the more common viewpoint of the landlubber, Fagan reminds us of the vital role played by water in not only our socio-economic and political evolution but also our spiritual evolution."—Literary Review(UK)"Scholarly yet lyrical … quietly epic."—Sunday Times Magazine(UK)"Hugely impressive and wideranging book"—Mail on Sunday(UK)"Combining his talents as a navigator, archaeologist and historian, Brian Fagan takes us on an enthralling tour of the world as its shores were being opened up by the first seamen to cross the oceans and the major seas. One could not hope for a more engaging skipper."—David Abulafia, Cambridge University, author ofThe Great Sea"Tacking between first-person anecdotes, archeological explanations, and fictionalized scenes from the distant past, this salty work of historical imagination travels with the Micronesian outriggers that ferried moai carvers to Easter Island, the Egyptian timber barges that carried the cedars of Lebanon to the pharaohs, and the black ships that brought the Greek heroes to the gates of Troy…Fagan has produced a loving tribute to their achievement."—Publishers Weekly"Fagan’s newest archaeological work benefits from his own seafaring experiences… sure to pique the interest of maritime readers… A thoughtful presenter, Fagan accords a suitable awe to the intrepid sailors of prehistory and ancient history."—Booklist"Enthralling… Fagan effectively intersperses observations from his own extensive sailing experience as he ponders how ancient mariners might have responded to various sea conditions and what may have initially caused them to take to the sea. VERDICT: Fagan paints a thoroughly fascinating portrait of the intricate interaction among ocean, climate, and humanity in the many parts of the world where seafaring cultures developed. This excellent book is sure to appeal to readers with some background and interest in world archaeology and history."—Library Journal(starred review)