Black Wave: A Family's Adventure at Sea and the Disaster That Saved Them

This book was great from page one to the last final word.

I read it all in less than two days because I could not put it down. The perspective from the wife was absolutely a must read for any woman that is considering living on a boat or cruising the world with their mate and children. Hard to believe she is not an accomplished author of many books. The way she weaved the tragic end of the voyage in clear detail with the total two year journey throughout her part of the book was masterful. She was open and genuine in sharing her most personal thoughts.

As for the husband's part, I really enjoyed the history of a previous wreck that parralleled their's on the same reef 150 years ago. It gives the historical context that transfers a feeling of timelessness to the sea and sailing. The man has a heart as big as the Pacific. These six people are everyday heros to all who dream of adventure and being brave enough to save those they truly love.

In the end, the experience for them as a family was something that cannot be duplicated or would anyone want to go through that ordeal. Still, the joy of seeing the kids both live real life outside of our comfortble California life style and then raise to the occation when called upon was very inspiring. My two sons have it on their summer reading list next. Definitly 5 STARS!!!!!

As a San Diego native I knew the story and the fantastic ending and still could not stop reading. I too am the mother of four children and cannot imagine attempting such a trip. Jean's account of their extraordinary family and adventure was perfect. Not only do you become part of the Emerald Jean family through her great writing but you relate to their strengths, emotions and troubles as a family to your own life. I found myself living the story with my husband and children and wondering if we all could have been so strong and loving. John's storytelling is not only educational it's laced with some fun humor and emotion. Truly a must read not only for adults but for young adults who could learn a lot from these amazing children. Would love to hug Camille and have cookies and milk with her! The movie will be great!!!!!

After not being to put this book down, I realize what a boring life i have led. This is a must read for any landlubber or sailor alike.

What an experience! I felt like I was the 7th passenger on board! Its in 2 parts..first part written by the mom describing the tragic shipwreck in graphic detail to the adventures they went through as a family on their fascinating travels from port to port, beach to beach and out at sea. It goes back and forth with you on the edge of your seat waiting to hear what comes next. The descriptive and wonderful adventures of all of the kids and how they lived onboard. The second part written by the dad compares their ordeal with an ancient shipwreck in the same place with similar experiences....eerie at times.

Overall a great read and I could not put it down! KR from San Diego, CA

This is an amazing story and I highly recommend reading this book - You will truly feel for this family. I couldn't put the book down!