Books

Catalogue



cover
4 

Title: Wager, The
Authors: Grann, David
Genre: Non Fiction
Pages: 352
Year: 2023
Language: English
Description: The coast of Patagonia has been the watery grave for many a ship, including HMS Wager, shipwrecked in 1741 while chasing a Spanish galleon. For the two parties of men who miraculously survive, one washing up in Chile and the other in Brazil, there are more challenges to come when they eventually return to Britain, needing to convince the authorities they are heroes not mutineers.

Subtitled 'a tale of shipwreck, mutiny and murder', this is the enthralling and suspenseful story of men desperate to survive in the age of The Empire, distinguished by its meticulous research and its fascinating details about life at sea.

Categories: Non-fiction, Biography, Adventure/Exploration, Historical, Morals/Ethics, Tragedy/disaster, Content may disturb, 2025 Titles

Reviews

[Please log in to write a review]
By: WAITAT 004 2026-03-16 14:44:56
4 
This is not a book we would usually pick off the shelf - but, we all read it (small type!) and it led to much discussion which went all over the place. Group members now hunting out others by this author.

By: CHCH 558 2026-02-19 14:28:27
4 
This was one of the rare books that achieved consensus in our rating. The book generated a lively discussion, with many pointing out the trials and tribulations of the crew members - the word "misery" was mentioned more than once. We all agreed the book was impeccably researched and well-written. Our only minor criticism was that the first part was slow-going and some members struggled to get past it, but once they did they found it well worth it.

By: AUCK 349 2026-01-01 14:40:41
4 
Some found the book rather dense, whilst others found it an incredible story. The author's writing style and research expertise is evident. How the original handwritten records survived the dangerous conditions is remarkable. A book well worth reading.

By: NELS 012 2025-11-28 14:44:34
5 
Fantastic book - so interesting. A great read. Thank you.

By: WELL 228 2025-10-20 14:10:39
4 
A harrowing story. Glad to live in this century.

By: ASHB 004 2025-10-09 13:12:15
4.5 
The book and notes were excellent. A great discussion followed from reading the book which was compelling reading. Everyone agreed that David Grann is a wonderful wordsmith! Non-fiction that keeps you on the edge of your seat. His writing is excellent! Many readers are looking out other titles by the author.

By: WANG 004 2025-09-01 10:04:38
5 
Our group found 'The Wager' a fascinating story, complicated and very detailed. We all learnt a lot about sailing ships.

By: GISB 005 2025-08-25 10:35:57
5 
Most read and loved this book, and all partners of the members read it too!

By: TAUP 011 2025-07-02 14:39:57
4 
A rip-roaring read that could equally be played out today - money, politics, those who have and those who haven't.

By: CHCH 344 2025-05-12 10:30:01
4 
Well-written. Really enjoyed it - we were surprised how much we liked it.

By: TAIH 002 2025-03-12 13:09:46
4.5 
We REALLY enjoyed this book, it was a real insight into life in the 1700s - and created discussion on many subjects! We highly recommend it to other clubs.

By: CHCH 527 2025-02-27 12:07:23
4 
Our best read so far - very well researched , fascinating story of exploration, adventure, and ultimately survival in a desolate part of the world.

By: NAP 005 2025-02-15 20:42:13
4 
Very well researched and written so it was a fascinating read. We learnt so much.

 
The Book Discussion 
Scheme is a member of the Federation of Workers Educational Associations in Aotearoa New Zealand
BDS is a member of the Federation of Workers Educational Associations
Top