68 pages 2 hours read

Dava Sobel

Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Longitude by Dava Sobel recounts the 18th-century quest to solve the problem of determining a ship's longitude at sea. It follows John Harrison, a clockmaker who created the first accurate maritime timepiece, and his prolonged struggle against astronomers advocating a celestial method. Replete with maritime disasters, brilliant innovations, and political intrigue, the narrative traces the eventual recognition of Harrison's pivotal contributions to navigation. Note: Historical maritime disasters are described.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Longitude by Dava Sobel receives high praise for its engaging narrative and accessible explanation of complex scientific history. Readers appreciate the seamless blend of storytelling and factual detail, though a few find the explanations occasionally oversimplified. Overall, it's lauded for making maritime history captivating and comprehensible.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Longitude?

Readers who enjoy historical narratives with a scientific twist, particularly those who appreciated The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester or The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton, will find Longitude by Dava Sobel captivating. It appeals to those fascinated by maritime history, innovation, and the quest for navigation solutions.

Recommended

Reading Age

14-18years

Lexile Level

1310L

Book Details

Topics

Science / Nature

Education

History: World

Themes

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology

Genre

Travel Literature

Biography