Temple to the Wind: The Story of America's Greatest Naval Architect and His Masterpiece, Reliance

I'm a history buff, and have not previously been a sailing buff -- BUT this book may make me one! If you're like me, you will enjoy learning more about the time period, the America's Cup races, Sir Thomas Lipton, Nathanael Herreshoff and Charlie Barr. It's apparent that the author loves what he was researching/writing about because it made it a joy to read!

This book was an entertaining and informative even for someone who generally tries to avoid the non-fiction aisle. The book is packed with information and is clearly well researched -- who knew the America's Cup played such a big part in the history of this country. Book was recommended by sailor, but being one is certainly not a prerequisite (as I am proof positive). Read this book and you will be recommending it to your friends and family.

Temple to the Wind is the next creative non-fiction hit. As you can tell by the editorial reviews provided above, Temple to the Wind is comparable to Seabiscuit, Fastnet Force Ten, and In the Heart of the Sea. It really is that good. The story of Captain Nat and Charlie Barr has been told numerous times in books with an academic and dry approach. I know because I've read most of them. Pastore breaks from that trend and puts humor, suspense and in-depth research into a book that is obviously well researched and written. Pastore's lifetime in the maritime world, combined with his academic approach and fluent writing style give the reader a story that has been told multiple times, but never quite like this. Temple to the Wind, like Reliance, is a winner. What I especially like about Temple to the Wind is its lack of "fluff" writing. Instead of using fabricated dialogue to embellish and give voice to the characters, Pastore mined the available material (including personal letters and diaries of Captain Nat and Sir Lipton) at the New York Yacht Club, Mystic Seaport, and Royal Ulster Yacht Club to create the tension and interaction between the characters. From my experience sailing and racing on the restored J boats Shamrock and Endeavour, and my time spent in the yacht construction industry, I can say that Pastore has hit the nail on the head when it comes to recreating the construction and racing of the great Reliance. His description of the construction techniques used and the racing strategy are right on. However, it needs to be stressed that Temple to the Wind does not read like a boat building manual or racing rules guide. It is first and foremost a story about the characters that surrounded the boat. For those of you who are unfamiliar with maritime terminology, don't worry, the extensive glossary provides accurate and understandable definitions and explanations. The glossary also contains a helpful and accurate illustration. Experienced sailors, armchair sailors, and history buffs alike, this book is either a perfect way to pass the winter months that are approaching or to enjoy while sitting at anchor next summer.

I'm not much of a sailor, but this book intrigued me because of its title and the beautiful cover picture. I have fond memories of living in Newport, Rhode Island during the excitement of America's Cup season. Well, I couldn't put this book down! Pastore has a real gift for writing. The story of Nathanael Herreshoff and the early days of the America's Cup is so well researched and written that even a landlubber like me could stay riveted. I was fascinated with the characters. If you are looking for a well written story, I recommend Temple to the Wind. I hope to read more from Christopher Pastore soon!

I picked this book up a few days ago, and I finished it at warp speed. This is a book about the America's Cup races at the turn of the century between English and American teams of boat designers, sailors, and wealthy financial backers. The author tells the story of each part of these teams, and it kept me glued. Pastore does a really good job I think in telling this story. He uses his own obvious sailing and sailboat expertise to recreate every detail of the enormous (at least for their day) vessels and their crews. You get a sense for the danger involved and the what was at stake, and you can trust the author. He is academic about the details, but his love for boats and sailing permeates. The races took place over a hundred years ago, but he makes them exciting and you really don't know what's going to happen. It's fun. I have written reviews of fiction before, but never for non-fiction. This book really grabbed my attention for some reason. I don't think I will be alone. The story works on so many levels....political, nautical, technological, economic. I am giving this book for a christmas gift. I feel confident that several members of my family will enjoy this story.