Maximum Sail Power: The Complete Guide to Sails, Sail Technology, and Performance

"Written in concise, layperson's language and full of photographs and personal anecdotes, this book goes step-by-step through the process of creating and using sails. Provided is a definitive look at the latest developments in sails, sailcloth, engineering, hardware, and sail trim. Also offered are case studies that illustrate which fibers, fabrics, and sails are suitable for a variety of different sailing applications, from simple dinghies and day sailors to offshore racing and cruising yachts. Sailors of all levels of interest and ability will find information they can apply to their own boats and sail choices."

Brian Hancock is an expert in sails, sailmaking, and offshore ocean racing. He is a regular feature writer for Sailing, Blue Water Sailor, and Yachting World magazines and is the author of The Risk in Being Alive. He lives in Marblehead, Massachusetts.