Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before by Tony Hurwitz



Travel/History

This book combines adventure travel and history as the author, a great storyteller, retraces the voyages of Captain James Cook across the Pacific. It provides entertaining reading as well as insight into the indigenous people and the impact of Cook on the islands. It also gives you an amazing sense of the challenges of 18th century sea voyages.



Submitted by Judith

Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

Memoir
Not yet 40, Ayaan Hirsi Ali has already made an impact on discussion concerning the rights of Muslim emigrants in Western countries. Growing up in Somalia, Saudi Arabia and Kenya plagued by political unrest, financial insecurity and the restrictions of Muslim culture, Ayaan fled to the Netherlands where she was granted asylum and citizenship. Determined to make the most of these gifts, she sought a university education and became a member of Parliment. Her frank discussion of the plight of Muslim women has resulted in death threats.

Submitted by Max

Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill

Historical Fiction
Compelling saga of a girl captured as a slave at the age of eleven, told from her point of view. Captured in West Africa and transported to South Carolina during Revolutionary times, she eventually escapes and helps others. This is an inspiring story of an intelligent and courageous survivor.

Submitted by Mimi