The Log from the Sea of Cortez is a travelogue by American author John Steinbeck, published in 1951. The book recounts his maritime journey along the Pacific coast of Mexico with biologist Ed Ricketts aboard the Western Flyer in 1940.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who loves to travel and explore new places, as well as those who are interested in learning more about marine biology. Steinbeck’s vivid descriptions of the natural landscape and sea life offer a unique glimpse into an area that is now largely inaccessible due to development.
Pros :
- The descriptions of the marine life and landscape are beautifully written.
- It provides a unique insight into John Steinbeck’s thoughts and creative process.
- The book is an enjoyable read even if you’re not particularly interested in science or nature
Cons :
- It is dry
- It is slow
- It’s not for everyone
Learn more about the author
John Steinbeck was born on February 27, 1902, in Salinas, California. He worked as a laborer and journalist before publishing his first novel, Cup of Gold (1929), about Spanish pirate Henry Morgan. He achieved popular success with Tortilla Flat (1935), the story of paisanos— poor Mexican farmers— in Monterey County. His acclaimed novella Of Mice and Men (1937) tells the tragic tale of George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant ranch workers in California during the Great Depression. The Grapes of Wrath (1939), his Pulitzer Prize-winning epic about Dust Bowl refugees fleeing to California, solidified Steinbeck’s reputation as one of America’s greatest writers. Other notable works include Cannery Row (1945), East of Eden(1952)— for which he won the Nobel Prize for Literature —and Travels with Charley: In Search of America (1960). Steinbeck died in New York City on December 20, 1968.” The Log from the Sea of Cortez is an interesting read that provides insights into John Steinbeck’s journey along Mexico’s Pacific coast with biologist Ed Ricketts aboard the Western Flyer back in 1940. full of observations about marine life, the book doubles as a travelogue of sorts and also offers readers a.
Reader Reviews
“The Log from the Sea of Cortez is a book about Beauty. John Steinbeck and his friend, Ed Ricketts, go on a voyage along the coast of Mexico to find and study beauty in all its forms. What they find is more than they ever could have imagined.”
“The Log from the Sea of Cortez”
“If you love the ocean, if you love Steinbeck’s writing, if you are interested in marine biology or simply want to vicariously experience a great adventure – then do not miss this book!”
“The Log from the Sea of Cortez is a Steinbeck classic. If you love nature, you will love this book. Ricketts and Steinbeck’s descriptions of the beauty and rhythms of the ocean are eloquent and poetic.”