Boon Island – A True Story of Mutiny, Shipwreck, and Cannibalism is a retelling of a famous survival story in American history.    In 1710 the Nottingham Gallery wrecked on a very small barren island just off the New England Coast in winter.   Most of the crew scrambled to shore, but the treeless rocky islet had no trees and no shelter from the winter winds and freezing temperatures.    With no food and no chance of fire or shelter, most of the sailors survive for weeks before finally being rescued.

The story was originally told by the captain as a tale of survival and heroism.   As an educated member of the upper classes, his account became well-known and widely discussed.    He uses it to further his own career over a period of decades.  But there was another version of the story, told by 3 of the seamen from the ordeal, an unflattering account of the captain and his brother, with allegations of incompetence, treason, insurance fraud, and lying.    As a historian, the author offers both stories and allows the readers to use their own critical reasoning to evaluate the full story.

An interesting historical account, one worth reading.    4.3 out of 5.0 stars4.3

A short audio except is provided here:

When reading this book, I had flashes of similarity to the story of Donald Trump!