The Ship Asunder : A Maritime History of Britain in Eleven Vessels

Embark on a captivating journey through three and a half millennia of British maritime history with Tom Nancollas's 'The Ship Asunder'. This Sunday Times Book of the Year charts a course from the Middle Bronze Age to the dawn of the 20th century, weaving together the tales of eleven remarkable vessels.

Imagine a ship with a prehistoric prow, a Victorian steamship's mast, the hull of a humble fishing boat, an ocean liner's propeller, and a stone anchor. This fantastical vessel, which we might christen 'Asunder', represents the scattered fragments of Britain's maritime legacy, strewn across its creeks and coastlines.

Nancollas's narrative is a masterful blend of historical insight and evocative storytelling. From the swallowtail prow of a Bronze Age craft to a stone ship moored at a Baroque quayside, each relic illuminates a distinct chapter in Britain's seafaring saga. The author brings to life the unsung heroes of this maritime nation - the shipwrights, fishermen, merchants, and naval architects who shaped its destiny upon the waves.

This compelling account delves into the heart of British maritime culture, exploring shipwrecks and superstitions, pilgrimages and trade, triumphs and tragedies. 'The Ship Asunder' is a poignant celebration of Britain's rich seafaring tradition, pondering how best to memorialise this vanishing heritage.

Written with passion and empathy, Nancollas's work is destined to become a lasting testament to Britain's enduring relationship with the sea. As Francis Pryor, author of 'The Fens', aptly notes, "This book is written with passion and sympathy. It will live with me for a very long time."

Product Information:

Book ISBN:	9780241434154
Book Author:	Tom Nancollas
Book Format:	Paperback / softback
Book Imprint:	Penguin Books Ltd
Book Publisher:	Penguin Books Ltd
Book Dimensions:	197 x 129 x 18 cm
Book Publication Date:	2023-03-30
Book Pagination:	336 pages
Book Weight:	250g