It is almost unimaginable-what these men braved and experienced, but-thanks to a painstaking reliance on primary sources-the author brings it all vividly too life
really interesting ( )

This book is a unique blend of historical fact and gripping narration. One would learn of the age of exploration in general, so much about the Magellan-Elcano trip, and the perspectives and ideas of that era. Antonio Pigafetta's chronicles are referenced at many places in detail and add another layer of information to the narrative. The stories, the opinions of 16th century explorers, the tragedies and the lessons learnt are all things one would come to appreciate on reading. You'd also come across the history of discovery of so many places, of Tierra Del Fuego, of Guam, of the straits of Magellan, even of the first observations recorded by Europeans of the dwarf Magellanic galaxies! The path taken by the Armada of Molucca will pretty much be hardcoded into your memory once you get through this book. ( )

Appallingly badly written. The reading by the author himself not much better. Staggering that this came recommended by Kevin Kelly and has been so successful. Not recommended. ( )

Every epic fiction story pales in comparison with the true story of 5 little spanish ships voyaging through unknown waters. ( )

Excellently written and thoroughly enjoyable read. A true adventure of historically important discovery from the age of exploration. ( )