Learn To Sail: A Beginner's Guide to the Art, Equipment, and Language of Sailing on a Lake or Ocean

The world-famous sailor presents a beginner's guide to sailing that covers such basics as boat selection, terminology, weather interpretation, and fundamental sailing principles.

Clearly written and profusely illustrated, this good, solid item for would-be sailors comes from the coauthors of Sail Like a Champion (LJ 7/92). Conner, who is well known as an America's Cup-winning skipper, peppers the text with many of his own experiences. Included are chapters on nomenclature (with particularly useful advice as to which terms are no longer used), as well as knots, rules of the road, and the handling of emergencies. There is, however, very little racing information (e.g., no advice is given regarding the setting and flying of spinnakers). The authors firmly advocate combining use of this book with hands-on practical experience. Their experience, combined with the book's readable format, make this a worthwhile acquisition for many collections.
Robert E. GreenINfield, formerly with Baltimore Cty. P.L.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Four-time America's Cup champion Dennis Conner is probably the most famous sailor since Popeye. Rather than recounting his triumphs, as he's done in several earlier books, Conner turns his attention here to novice sailors. This beginner's guide to the sport's "art, equipment, and language" effectively takes the mystery out of sailing and its arcane vocabulary. Conner recommends boats on which to learn, defines sailing etiquette, offers weather analysis, and discusses sailing under adverse conditions and coping with emergencies. For those who couldn't get that merit badge on tying knots, he includes a helpful, well-illustrated chapter called "The Ties That Bind." Safety is emphasized throughout, whether it's deciding if today's a good sailing day or if it's time to dock the boat. Though sailing is an activity that demands personalized, hands-on instruction, this is an excellent introduction to the principles of the sport. Conner never talks down to his students; he clearly loves sailing and can't help but communicate his passion. Wes Lukowsky