Away Offshore by Nathaniel Philbrick

A comprehensive read for anyone wanting to learn about the history of Nantucket. Philbrick covers many topics, including the island's native origins, its politics and religion, and the rise and fall of whaling. Each chapter follows a main Nantucket figure, aiming "to bring to life the island's history" by looking at each individual's impact on how the island changed over time.

Philbrick says of the island, "As a nation beside a nation, Nantucket was (and is) a microcosm of America and an exception to the rule..." Away Off Shore documents the achievements, eccentricities, and far-reaching impact of Nantucketers from pre-colonial to Victorian times.

By Nathaniel Philbrick

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.25 x 0.95 inches
• Product Weight: 8 ounces
• Publisher: Penguin Books (2011)

"For everyone who loves Nantucket Island this is the indispensable book." - Russell Baker