This extremely well written (and now regretfully out of print) tome is one a a very small group of books that captures cruising life on the West Coast of British Columbia and Alaska during the 1920's. Along with works by Edward Stuart White and "Capi" Blanchet, this book captures a way of life and a part of the world that seems almost alien in today's post industrial society. The book itself chronicles the adventures of the Pinkertons (husband, wife and daughter) as they sailed the waters, bays and straits of the West Coast. While the book would be valuable from a historical perspective alone, it is also an excellent and enjoyable read. Kathrene Pinkerton was a professional writer, who along with her husband worked in the prolific pulp fiction market which was big in the 20's and 30's. Her ability to weave a tale and reflect the fascinating world of that bygone era makes this book a classic.

The Pinkertons were one of the first 'tourist' or cruising boats ever to go into parts of the West Coast or Alaska. They were truly pioneers in the chronicles of West Coast cruising (sailing variety, that is). They set the stage for the countless multitudes which have followed. While things have changed on the West Coast, especially since the logging industry has raped and destroyed most of the landscape so tellingly described by Pinkerton, the magic they felt and transmitted in the book can still be felt today. Buy this book if you can get it. It's worth it!!!