The Ship and The Storm
The Loss of the Fantome

Jim Carrier

I have read a pre-print of Jim Carrier's book, The Ship and the Storm: Hurricane Mitch and the Loss of the Fantome.

 It is Excellent!!

This book tells the story of the Sailing Vessel Fantome, and its final encounter with Hurricane Mitch. This story is more compelling than Perfect Storm, in that much of what happened to the ship and crew is known. The majesty of tall ships adds to the dramatic atmosphere in a way a fishing boat cannot. This thoroughly researched and documented story is more meaningful and interesting than Isaac’s Storm because of the timeliness and contemporary interviews.

This is a story of the most basic man versus nature. It is easier to follow this storm than the one in Perfect Storm. Hurricane Mitch was followed by the modern world from its earliest moments to its predatory fury over Honduras.

Jim Carrier has carefully researched and told the story of the Fantome and her history. He has recounted the last month of the ship and its aftermath without any of the sensationalism and second-guessing that was common in so much of the press and in magazine articles afterwards.  And finally, he applied “Forensic Journalism” to draw some conclusions about those moments that we don’t know what happened. This is a story that is a fine addition to anyone with an interest in stories of the sea and human drama. Of course, those who have been fortunate to sail on the tall ships will insist on owning this book.

As I read this book, I was sailing aboard the S/V Polynesia, another ship of the Windjammer/Barefoot Fleet. To my east, two hurricanes were on the prowl. This added to the chill of reading this book. I knew the Fantome and her crew, and they have a permanent place in my heart.  I followed the news closely and shared it with others.  I imagined myself in Captain Guyan’s place, and thought of the decisions that he would have made.  And I cried with the memories as Amazing Grace was played.

Jim Carrier had done a remarkable job with his research and this book. Once you read this book, you will understand the truth and the known details of what happened to this beautiful ship and her crew.

On-Line  Check this book out at:  www.Amazon.com or  www.bn.com  In both cases search for FANTOME

The link below will take you to Amazon page

 http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/007135526X/102-6811874-2743301

Review: Dean in Southern Delaware