Au plus près du vent
€20.85
A teenager’s bold journey on a 1930s schooner unfolds in this vivid true story. Through storms, labor, and brotherhood, discover the trials that forged a boy into a man in the untamed Alaskan waters.
39364
Data sheet
- Year
- 2005
- Picto
- In French language
Specific References
- UPC
- 400000109206
- EAN13
- 9782841411917
New
Description détaillée
As Close to the Wind As Possible
Book in FrenchPaperback edition
The Ultimate Maritime Coming-of-Age Story
Step aboard the William H. Smith, a four-masted schooner that becomes the stage for one boy’s extraordinary journey into manhood. Set against the backdrop of 1930s America, during the depths of the Great Depression, this gripping first-person narrative follows Russ Hofvendahl, a determined 15-year-old who lies about his age to secure a spot on a cod-fishing expedition to the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea. What unfolds is a five-month odyssey filled with raw adventure, hard-won lessons, and the unvarnished realities of life at sea—where every wave, wind, and human interaction shapes a boy into a man.
A Vanished World Brought to Life
This book is more than a memoir; it’s a time capsule of a bygone era. Through vivid storytelling and rare archival photographs of the ship and crew, the author immerses readers in the harsh yet fascinating world of commercial sailing in the early 20th century. No modern conveniences here—just a wooden schooner, a crew of forty, and the relentless power of the ocean. The narrative captures the essence of a life where survival depends on skill, resilience, and camaraderie, offering a rare glimpse into a maritime culture that has all but disappeared.
Trials by Sea and Self
The Bering Sea is unforgiving, and the William H. Smith faces it all: towering waves, bone-chilling fog, and the ever-present threat of being lost at sea. But the challenges extend beyond the elements. The author recounts the grueling labor on deck, the tension of high-stakes maneuvers, and the volatile dynamics of life in close quarters—where friendships are tested, rivalries flare, and the loss of a crewmate leaves a lasting mark. With unflinching honesty, he explores the complexities of human relationships in a confined world, where humor and heartache coexist, and every decision carries weight.
A Rite of Passage Like No Other
Beyond the physical trials, this is a story of transformation. As the schooner crosses the Bering Strait, Russ Hofvendahl navigates another, more personal passage: the turbulent transition from boyhood to adulthood. The sea becomes both adversary and teacher, pushing him to his limits while revealing strengths he never knew he had. The lessons learned—about perseverance, responsibility, and the value of hard work—resonate far beyond the deck of the William H. Smith, making this a tale that speaks to readers of all ages and backgrounds.
For Adventurers, History Buffs, and Dreamers
Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, a lover of true stories, or simply someone who appreciates a well-told tale of resilience, As Close to the Wind As Possible delivers. The book’s blend of historical detail, personal reflection, and high-seas drama makes it a compelling read for anyone who has ever wondered what it takes to face the unknown and emerge stronger. With its rich descriptions and authentic voice, this memoir is not just a recounting of events—it’s an invitation to experience the thrill, danger, and beauty of a life lived at the mercy of the wind and waves.
Experience the Raw Beauty of a Bygone Maritime Era
Dive into As Close to the Wind As Possible, a captivating first-person account that transports you to the deck of the William H. Smith, a four-masted schooner battling the Bering Sea in the 1930s. This isn’t just a story about sailing—it’s a gripping tale of survival, growth, and the unbreakable bond between man and the sea. Follow Russ Hofvendahl, a 15-year-old stowaway turned crew member, as he navigates the physical and emotional storms of a five-month cod-fishing expedition, where every day is a test of endurance and every lesson is hard-earned.
A Masterclass in Maritime History and Human Resilience
This 269-page paperback is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Published in 2005, it offers a rare, unfiltered look at the golden age of commercial sailing, long before modern technology softened the edges of life at sea. The book is enriched with archival photographs that bring the William H. Smith and its crew to life, making the past feel tangible. Weighing just 0.7 kg and measuring 14.9 x 22 x 1.8 cm, it’s the perfect companion for readers who crave depth without bulk—ideal for commutes, travel, or cozy evenings by the fire.
More Than a Memoir—A Journey of Self-Discovery
At its core, this is a coming-of-age story set against the most unforgiving of backdrops. The author’s candid and often humorous voice draws you into the daily struggles and triumphs of life aboard the schooner: the backbreaking labor, the camaraderie, the fear of being lost in the fog, and the grief of losing a fellow crew member. But it’s the personal transformation that lingers. As Russ grapples with the challenges of the sea, he also confronts the universal trials of growing up—learning responsibility, facing fear, and discovering what it means to be a man. The result is a narrative that’s as much about the human spirit as it is about the power of the ocean.
Why This Book Belongs on Your Shelf
If you love stories that blend history, adventure, and personal reflection, As Close to the Wind As Possible is a must-read. It’s a book that appeals to sailors and landlubbers alike, offering a visceral experience of a world where nature dictates the rules and every decision could mean the difference between life and death. Whether you’re looking to escape into a thrilling true story or gain insight into the resilience of the human spirit, this memoir delivers on all fronts. Lightweight, immersive, and deeply moving, it’s a book you’ll return to again and again.
This 269-page paperback edition of As Close to the Wind As Possible is designed for both durability and portability. Measuring 14.9 x 22 x 1.8 cm and weighing just 0.7 kg, it’s compact enough to carry anywhere, yet substantial enough to hold its own as a collector’s piece of maritime literature. Published in September 2004 and released in 2005, this French-language edition features a sturdy paperback binding, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of travel or repeated readings. With no illustrations but a wealth of vivid storytelling, it’s a book that lets the words—and the reader’s imagination—paint the pictures.
With a legacy rooted in the world of maritime literature, this publisher has carved a niche for itself by bringing to life stories that capture the essence of the sea. Specializing in works that blend history, adventure, and human drama, their catalog includes memoirs, historical accounts, and narratives that resonate with sailors, historians, and armchair adventurers alike. Each book is crafted to transport readers to the deck of a ship, the heart of a storm, or the quiet moments of reflection that define life at sea, making their publications a staple for anyone passionate about the ocean’s enduring allure.
- Immerse yourself in a true story that reads like a novel, where every page brims with authenticity and raw emotion.
- This book offers a rare window into a vanished world of commercial sailing, blending historical detail with the personal growth of its young protagonist.
- Lightweight and portable, it’s perfect for readers on the go, while its gripping narrative ensures you’ll stay hooked from the first page to the last.
- Whether you’re a history buff, a sailing enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a well-told tale of resilience, this memoir delivers an unforgettable journey that lingers long after the final page.
What is the weight of the book?
The book weighs 0.7 kg.
What are the dimensions of the book?
The dimensions are 14.9 x 22 x 1.8 cm.
How many pages does the book contain?
The book contains 269 pages.
When was the book originally published?
It was originally published in September 2004.
Is the book available in any language other than French?
No, the book is only available in French.
Does the book include any illustrations?
No, it does not include illustrations, but it features photographs of the ship and crew.
What type of binding does the book have?
The book has a paperback binding.
You might also like
