One man's appreciation of one of his favorite books. Recommended reading after one has tackled Moby Dick. ( )

A short, enjoyable read, only 127 pages. I love Moby Dick and Nathaniel Philbrick. Philbrick's In the Heart of the Sea remains one of my favorite non-fiction books. However, had I not already read Moby Dick, I don't think this book would have convinced me to read it unless I was already having thoughts of doing so. It will, however, make a first reading of Moby Dick more enjoyable because it helps explain what Melville was trying to accomplish and offers sound interpretations. I especially enjoyed the biographical tidbits Philbrick provides, particularly regarding the impact of Nathaniel Hawthorne's friendship.

I received a digital review copy from the publisher and also checked the book out of the library. It's a handsome book and would make a nice present for the American Literature lover in your life. I think most people who've already read Moby Dick would enjoy reading this short book. Reading it was, for me, a refreshing walk down memory lane. ( )

Almost made me want to read Moby Dick again. Almost. ( )

In the time it would take to summarize Philbrick's book "Why Read Moby-Dick", you could read it yourself. It's that short.
This book is pretty much what you'd expect from the title, e.g., Philbrick discussing his reasons as to why he considers Moby Dick to be a classic of American literature and a story of American life from that time. References to the true story of the whaling ship Essex, which sunk after being rammed by a whale and thus provided the basis of Moby-Dick, was very interesting. ( )

Moby Dick is already one of my favorite books, but this short book casts a light on its creation and how time has only served to increase its relevance. ( )