I'm going to skip the words of praise for this book because you've probably already heard them. Some observations: 1) This book came out the same year as Darwin's Origin of Species. It's amazing because, in the chapters describing whales, evidence of evolution is described though not identified as such. It's clear that they had all the information they needed to see evolution in those days, it just took Darwin to interpret it. 2) This is one of those books that is amazing while you're reading it but it's hard to pick up. I would recommend setting yourself a schedule. 3) Looking for a similar but easier/more modern book to read afterwards? Interested in the subject matter of Moby Dick but can't get through the language? Try The Terror by Dan Simmons. It's amazing, it's similar to Moby Dick in some ways, but it's different enough that comparing them won't diminish either of them.

Feb 16, 2012. Read one chapter while waiting at the library. Hope to get back to it soon!

One of the greatest books ever written and the highest achievement of the American literary tradition. Beautifully written philosophical epic full of wit and compassion. The illustrations by Rockwell Kent have become a modern classic in their own right.

They call me Ishmael ! With Ishmael joining the rag tag crue of Captain Ahab...they all join the hunt for the Great Whale. Classic

They call me Ishmael ! The fast and crazy crew of Captain Ahab... The fantastic adventure to hunt the great whale. True classic

They call me Ishmael ! The wonderful and tragic story of the hunt for the great Whale. True classic