The old men on the boat by award-winning author Becky Coffield, it might not spur the reader to pick up a set of oars and a rowboat (although it would be hard not to), but it’s impossible to read the book and not be motivated to tackle personal challenges or long-term goals. data.
Coffield tells a charming story about how he started rowing when he was over 60 years old. The first part of the book is very informative about rowing boats, her husband’s actual building of the boat, and the unique history of the sport of rowing, particularly wherrys. Once the author really starts rowing, though, readers will likely laugh at Coffield’s escapades, trials, and trips in her boat and her salvaged skiff. In fact, the $100 Sunken and Dilapidated Skiff Buying and Renovating could be a book unto itself.
The author’s energy seems endless as she prepares to “row out West” and then decides to “row out the Inside Passage” of British Columbia. It’s after a summer in British Columbia that the idea of rowing Knight Inlet takes hold of her.
In the second part of the book, when the author’s plans to paddle the massive 200-mile Knight Inlet in British Columbia are thwarted, she decides to undertake a 200-mile row, a 200-mile hike, and a 200-mile jog. on his mule. all to be completed in 100 days in the deadly heat of Arizona. This is where one really begins to see the courage and determination of the author. Her struggle to succeed may not match the struggle of ocean rowers rowing a thousand miles or more, but her ability to entertain the reader for 200 miles is exceptional and leaves little doubt that this now 69-year-old woman might row an ocean if he so chose.
What is particularly captivating about the second part of the book, aside from the author’s genuine struggles, are her thoughts throughout her ordeal. Many of her reminiscences are extraordinarily humorous, and humor is definitely one of the author’s strong points. However, there are times when she rows when her thoughts veer quickly from humor to shock, even sadness.
The ending of this book is surprising and perfect. The author simply says, “So ultimately, I think this book isn’t just about rowing. Maybe this book is about remembering to truly live no matter your age. In any case, rowing may not be for you.” you. Hiking may not be right for you. Equines may scare you. But never mind, I’m pretty sure there’s at least one thing, maybe many things, you’d like to do before you die. Maybe that’s what it’s all about really this book. What are you waiting for?”