Title: A Pearl in the Storm: How I Found My Heart in the Middle of the Ocean
Author: Tori Murden McClure
Publisher: Harper Collins, April 2009
Summary: Sometimes when you start a book by a new author it is important to give the story a chance to win you over. This is one of those books. I picked up this book because I had done some rowing in a former life. I also am fascinated by the idea of people doing extraordinary physical things that most armchair “explorers” can only dream of.
And true to form there are plenty of exciting moments where the reader holds their breath and cheers Tori on through some horrible storms including a hurricane. However, the most appealing quality of this book is the realistic way Tori reveals her story while she reflects upon the pivotal moments and people of her life as she rows across the Atlantic Ocean. Each life is unique and Tori’s tale does not disappoint. Her physical prowess is impressive to be sure however her humanity is even more so. She invites the reader to share her zig-zag road to contentment, or maybe even happiness.
Who will like this book: Anyone who enjoys an adventure, a tale of extreme physical challenge or perhaps someone who is at a crossroads in their life.
If you like this, try this: Books by Bruce Chatwin and Paul Theroux.
Recommended by: Karen, Deputy Town Librarian