The Book of the Sailboat: How to rig, sail and handle small boats

This volume takes listeners on a concise journey through the long, winding history of the smallest vessels that have ever plied the water. From the first hollowed logs and bark canoes of ancient peoples to the sleek flat‑bottomed craft still favored by anglers today, the author sketches each type with clear illustrations and vivid anecdotes. Along the way, readers learn how diverse rigs—from simple leg‑of‑mutton sails to more complex sloop and yawl arrangements—evolved to meet the needs of different waters and cultures.

Beyond the historical tour, the book offers a hands‑on guide to rigging, sailing, and maintaining a small boat. Practical sections cover everything from setting and reefing sails, choosing the right knots, and using a compass, to basic hull construction and repair techniques. Whether you are a curious beginner or an experienced sailor looking to refine your craft, the narration remains approachable and richly detailed, making the art of small‑boat sailing both accessible and enjoyable.