The Wide Wide Sea

From the New York Times bestselling author Hampton Sides comes a mesmerising account of one of the most significant voyages of the Age of Exploration – The Wide Wide Sea captures the fateful final journey of Captain James Cook with vivid detail and narrative mastery.

In July 1776, Captain James Cook embarked on his third and most ambitious voyage aboard the HMS Resolution. The journey was charged with monumental tasks: to locate the fabled Northwest Passage and to extend Britain's grasp over uncharted territories. What began as a voyage filled with scientific curiosity and the hopes of an empire soon turned into a testament of human endurance and the complexities of colonialism.

Captain Cook, celebrated across the world for his remarkable leadership, dedication to the sciences, and deep respect for indigenous cultures, found himself and his crew amidst unforeseen challenges. The mission, shrouded in secrecy and driven by imperial ambitions, took an unexpected turn. As Cook's behaviour grew increasingly erratic, the once-humane captain began to administer brutal punishments and lead his ships into perilous situations.

The narrative reaches its poignant climax on the islands of Hawaii, where tensions with the indigenous population culminated in Cook's untimely death. Sides delves deeply into what led one of history's greatest navigators to such a tragic end, unravelling the layers of intrigue, betrayal, and conflict that marked the final days of the expedition. The tale reveals the dual nature of exploration – the pursuit of knowledge and the quest for domination – reflecting the broader implications of colonial endeavours.

The Wide Wide Sea is a compelling exploration of humanity's drive to discover and conquer, a richly told saga that brings to light the enduring consequences of one of history's most storied voyages. With unparalleled research and an engaging narrative style, Hampton Sides offers readers a gripping historical account that is as enlightening as it is heartbreaking.