T O P R E V I E W S
The Pacific Alone - The Untold True Story of Kayaking's Boldest Voyage
From Canoe & Kayak's 2018 Guide to Fall Reading
Nov. 29, 2018
"Shively's narrative is worth the wait—especially when he places the reader inside Gillet's cramped, damp kayak cockpit, midway across the Pacific. Shively uses an active voice to recreate Gillet's inner dialogue, pushing the reader along like a tailwind."
5.0 out of 5 stars Next level exploration of human limits
October 26, 2018
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
What an incredible story. Through Ed’s journey, the author makes you question your own limits and willingness to find them. It’s an intense look into human nature’s ability to break free of comfort zones. Dave’s clear passion for the sport of kayaking comes through as you can sense the awe that he’s experiencing just writing about the expedition. A highly recommended read.
5.0 out of 5 stars A Book by Adventurers for Adventurers
November 26, 2018
Pacific Alone is an excellent read for anyone but I think those who will most enjoy it are those who have a strong desire to push their physical limits. The story itself is epic but the intimate view of an adventurer's mindset when facing that which most people will never experience is what makes this book unique. It's well-written and gives a lot of context before and after the journey. Just the right amount of detail to still be a quick read but feel like you have all the background information needed to truly appreciate the story.
5.0 out of 5 stars Gripping, Real, and Unfiltered
October 29, 2018
This is a remarkable story told brilliantly. I’ve yet to read a book that so accurately articulates the reasons why humans seek to push our perceived physical and psychological boundaries—or one that so poignantly shows the extreme cost it extracts from those who dare to risk going too far. Ed Gillet’s 2,200-mile solo crossing from Monterrey, California, to Maui is unquestionably kayaking’s boldest voyage—and from the first page of The Pacific Alone to the last, Dave Shively’s telling of it does the journey and its protagonist justice. I will read this book again, and would recommend it to anyone who looks to the sea for adventure—or anyone who wants to understand those who do.
5.0 out of 5 stars Well Written Book
December 6, 2018
This is a well-written book describing Ed Gillett's 63 day paddle from California to Hawaii. Some of the aspects to the book that make it very readable are that it provides an appropriate amount of backstory leading to the voyage and that it covers the trip in sections of time rather than a hour-by-hour - day-by-day basis (i.e., it is not a tedious read). The book also does a good job of describing emotional aspects of how the Gillett dealt with the issues of a slower-than-expected pace, short rations of food and medicine, and unanticipated climatic conditions. If you appreciate epic tales of adventure or survival, you will most likely enjoy this book.
November 21, 2018
Format: Hardcover
I had the honor of having Mr. Gilette as a teacher. He was always captivating when he spoke and very insightful. His journey was truly something remarkable is captivating from start to finish