The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger (1998)

Thoroughly researched, expertly crafted writing, and a page-turner worthy of a Hollywood movie, Junger's tale of the 'Andrea Gail' is worth the price.

When I saw the movie "The Perfect Storm" I was knocked out by it. I've since watched it numerous times, never tire of it - and each time wished the ending would be different! It's one of my top 5 favorite movies, so I thought it was time to read the book to see how accurate the movie was and how the information was obtained (since the Andrea Gail was never found). The book was drier than the movie - not as much focus on the individual personalities of the crew - but it was full of real-life experiences of other crew members who went through similar conditions - one of whom revived after drowning. It paints an amazing picture of how these boats work, how the weather affects them, everything that a captain needs to know and the incredibly tough job it is. The sea is brutal, an no one knows better than fishermen. There is also more focus on the Satori, the second vessel in the movie, which is presented more accurately (and still has some controversy attached to it.) My mind got a little bogged down by all the technical information, but it all blended together to give me a much better understanding of the dangers of the business and the nature of the men and women who choose this way of life.