This hefty book by Peter Freuchen, an Explorer’s Club member, can be described as a book of sea stories, and lore of the sea, tied in to the history of human beings on the oceans of the world.  When I was a boy I was lost in it for long periods and read parts of it over and over.  I have no doubt that carried with you on your own boat it will add depth to your appreciation of the traditions which you carry on and where they came from.  This gives a great sense of identity with the sailors of the past.  It makes a good introduction to why maritime history can be so endlessly compelling. (tm)