Laurence BergreenOver the Edge of the World Updated Edition: Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe

I wouldn't call this a perfect read, but the first circum-navigation around globe; orchestrated by Ferdinand Magellan, is legendary and horrifying; worthy of epic film adaptations or mini series'.Ferdinand Magellan, himself is in a way a tragic Shakespearen character in history, whose story told here by Lawrence Bergreen, is a great study of his human will and determination, but at the same time his incredible cruelty and descent into madness.The voyage itself is an example of sheer human resilience and will, but is more-so a better example about the horrors of sea-faring during the age of discovery.These men sailed through hell and back, and descended into the absolute dark depths of human nature and life at sea.

An excellent presentation of the historic and incredible voyage round the globe embarked by Magallan and it was a really terrific expedition. The efforts of the author should be appreciated for his research to go in depth to present the events in detail. A book worth reading.

An excellent read. I am now hooked on nautical adventure. I am working my way through all the major explorers: Columbus, Raleigh, Drake, Cook. These were incredibly brave men. You won’t admire everything about Magellan, but you will never forget his story.

It is a great book. A amazing history of theses greatest men. An exemple of courage. This is part of our history.

Great piece of history, very well told.

Thoroughly enjoying it

The book is pleasant to read, the writer alternates between narrative chapters and digressions on topics related to the story, which I found usually interesting. For example at the beginning it is described the historical background where Magellan was living, the games for power at Portuguese court. The book contains a lot of diary logs by two sailors that travelled together with Magellan. The voyage itself is so incredible that deserves to be read. At times though the digressions are a bit far fetched. Also, i dont like that every chapter starts with some verses, but mqybe because being not a native speaker I couldnt appreciatr them. Reccomended reading.