Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

The British Isles are blessed with a whole variety of waterways often encompassed within beautiful valleys, rolling hills, green fields and rugged coast lines. The presence of a flowing stream, waterfall or an idyllic pond can enhance a picturesque landscape.

While swimming in the moat located in his own back garden, inspired by thoughts of his son's current quest travelling in Australia and John Cheever's classic short story, The Swimmer, Roger Deakin decided he would undertake his own adventure and swim across Britain.

The Rambling Association's Right to Roam campaign is well publicised in the UK, so should that not include our right to swim in our lakes, dykes, and tarns? Deakin was ready to prove it did and planned a trip around Britain which would take him to numerous wild swimming venues.

Waterlog, is Deakin's account of his journey. He seeks out tarns high in the hills of north Wales, swims with salmon in Somerset and eels in the Fens. He describes the nature he sees around him from his unusual perspective inches above water level. His love of swimming away from the confines of a swimming pool comes through strongly in his writing. Wild swimming is an unusual hobby in modern society as we are constantly told how our rivers and lakes have become polluted by large industries disposing of waste via waterways and chemical fertilisers washing off farmers fields into out rivers. During his visit to a weir on the River Avon in Worcestershire, Deakin's hosts and fellow swimmers show him a letter they have received from the local environment agency outlining the dangers of swimming in the river. The letter describes how sewage can constitute up to 80 percent of the river flow and increase the risk of catching Weil's disease. Deakin takes in the scientific argument, arguing that the figures show that very few people catch Weil's Disease in the UK and of those who do, they are invariably not river swimmers.

Deakin has produced a deeply personal account of his journey. He informs us of any cultural, historical or geographic points of interest in a highly descriptive writing style which does not, however, read as an adventure story. Unfortunately, this means there is no climax to the book as a whole, but it does mean each chapter stands alone as a description of each area. Together, they make an interesting read and leave the reader with a wealth of information from an unusual perspective. --Stephen Payne

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Very long winded, 23 Aug 2007
If you intend to buy this book go to the nearest bookshop and browse the pages first, it's very difficult to read and by page 92 I'd had enough.
I'm sure there is some good advice in the book but it's very difficult to get to the detail.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Very long winded, 23 Aug 2007
If you intend to buy this book go to the nearest bookshop and browse the pages first, it's very difficult to read and by page 92 I'd had enough.
I'm sure there is some good advice in the book but it's very difficult to get to the detail.


Fascinating insights as relevant to team building as to rowing, 11 Oct 2008
This is a fascinating inside look at the preparation by the 2007 winning Cambridge Boat Race crew by a sociologist who more or less lived with the squad throughout the period and who appears to have played a crucial role at some moments - for instance in helping sort out some disputes within one of the crews.

It comes close to Daniel Topolski's 'Boat Race', the story of the Oxford revival from 1973 to 1984 and for me one of the best books on rowing ever written. It is miles ahead of Topolski's account of the 1987 mutiny - for me far over rated.

I was once captain of the rowing club (Jesus College) right next to the Goldie Boathouse (the CUBC headquarters) and have known some Boat Race oarsmen quite well - e.g rowed in races with them. And yet it is a very closed world, not open to the uninitiated. I had no idea what went on in there and this book really does open the doors. I found it extremely interesting.

Some fasinating insights included the detailed description by an (anonymous) squad member of how legally to raise testosterone levels before a race (the lengths these men would go to!). And then quick advice on how best to lower them again. The selection battles for the crew are well described and left me with the uneasy feeling that there might well have been people who had good grounds for feeling unhappy about not being in the crew.

The account of the replacement of Russ Glenn as cox just before the race is very sympathetic but, by contrast, leaves one in little doubt that the decision was hard but fair.

I was left with a great deal of sympathy - even liking - for the crew and for the Head Coach Duncan Holland, who left his position as Head Coach when his contract was not renewed after losing the Boat Race in 2008. And yet it was hard to avoid the conclusion that the crew, while winning, had significantly underperformed.

A couple of minor black spots: The book frustratingly does not examine the controversy over strokeman Thorsten Engelmann, the heavist man in Boat Race history at over 110 kg. He is the only person to have a Blue withdrawn when he left the University without completing his degree - but he comes across as a very sympathetic figure.

The photos are a disappointment - almost none of the crew as a crew, or of the race itself. Given that some of the people who play a key part in the story did not make the crew, it was a shame that none of them (other than Glenn) feature in the pictures. I would also have liked the statistics - the crew lists (both races) and times etc at the end.

I have worked in the organisational development field over recent years and the story is as relevant to team building as much as it is to rowing aficionados. I do recommend it.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Very long winded, 23 Aug 2007
If you intend to buy this book go to the nearest bookshop and browse the pages first, it's very difficult to read and by page 92 I'd had enough.
I'm sure there is some good advice in the book but it's very difficult to get to the detail.


Fascinating insights as relevant to team building as to rowing, 11 Oct 2008
This is a fascinating inside look at the preparation by the 2007 winning Cambridge Boat Race crew by a sociologist who more or less lived with the squad throughout the period and who appears to have played a crucial role at some moments - for instance in helping sort out some disputes within one of the crews.

It comes close to Daniel Topolski's 'Boat Race', the story of the Oxford revival from 1973 to 1984 and for me one of the best books on rowing ever written. It is miles ahead of Topolski's account of the 1987 mutiny - for me far over rated.

I was once captain of the rowing club (Jesus College) right next to the Goldie Boathouse (the CUBC headquarters) and have known some Boat Race oarsmen quite well - e.g rowed in races with them. And yet it is a very closed world, not open to the uninitiated. I had no idea what went on in there and this book really does open the doors. I found it extremely interesting.

Some fasinating insights included the detailed description by an (anonymous) squad member of how legally to raise testosterone levels before a race (the lengths these men would go to!). And then quick advice on how best to lower them again. The selection battles for the crew are well described and left me with the uneasy feeling that there might well have been people who had good grounds for feeling unhappy about not being in the crew.

The account of the replacement of Russ Glenn as cox just before the race is very sympathetic but, by contrast, leaves one in little doubt that the decision was hard but fair.

I was left with a great deal of sympathy - even liking - for the crew and for the Head Coach Duncan Holland, who left his position as Head Coach when his contract was not renewed after losing the Boat Race in 2008. And yet it was hard to avoid the conclusion that the crew, while winning, had significantly underperformed.

A couple of minor black spots: The book frustratingly does not examine the controversy over strokeman Thorsten Engelmann, the heavist man in Boat Race history at over 110 kg. He is the only person to have a Blue withdrawn when he left the University without completing his degree - but he comes across as a very sympathetic figure.

The photos are a disappointment - almost none of the crew as a crew, or of the race itself. Given that some of the people who play a key part in the story did not make the crew, it was a shame that none of them (other than Glenn) feature in the pictures. I would also have liked the statistics - the crew lists (both races) and times etc at the end.

I have worked in the organisational development field over recent years and the story is as relevant to team building as much as it is to rowing aficionados. I do recommend it.

A really useful and informative book., 15 Aug 2008
This is an excellent book explaining all the symbols on charts,I never realised how detailed charts were until I had this book open next to one. A really helpful book for sailors and a great referance to keep at hand.You won't regret spending the money to purchase this book.

A surprisingly fascinating read, 17 Jan 2007
I bought this book to help me while studying for RYA Day Skipper, but I'd recommend it not only to fellow sailors but anyone interested in charts and maps and how we know where we are on Earth. The first three chapters are a fascinating and important explanation of why we should treat maps and charts with caution as well as appreciation. The second part of the book is vital for any sailor as it lists the international standard for chart symbology, but goes much further than the dryness of Chart 5011, with explanations of how usage varies around the world. UK readers shouldn't worry that it was written for the US market, the author obviously has great respect for the British Admiralty charts and many examples use UK charts. Overall, highly recommended.

A really helpful book, 05 Feb 2006
This book has really helped me with my RYA studies and has also helped to explain some of the mystery of nautical charts. I would seriously recommend this book for anyone studying the RYA excams at any level. The book is clear & concise in its explanations.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Very long winded, 23 Aug 2007
If you intend to buy this book go to the nearest bookshop and browse the pages first, it's very difficult to read and by page 92 I'd had enough.
I'm sure there is some good advice in the book but it's very difficult to get to the detail.


Fascinating insights as relevant to team building as to rowing, 11 Oct 2008
This is a fascinating inside look at the preparation by the 2007 winning Cambridge Boat Race crew by a sociologist who more or less lived with the squad throughout the period and who appears to have played a crucial role at some moments - for instance in helping sort out some disputes within one of the crews.

It comes close to Daniel Topolski's 'Boat Race', the story of the Oxford revival from 1973 to 1984 and for me one of the best books on rowing ever written. It is miles ahead of Topolski's account of the 1987 mutiny - for me far over rated.

I was once captain of the rowing club (Jesus College) right next to the Goldie Boathouse (the CUBC headquarters) and have known some Boat Race oarsmen quite well - e.g rowed in races with them. And yet it is a very closed world, not open to the uninitiated. I had no idea what went on in there and this book really does open the doors. I found it extremely interesting.

Some fasinating insights included the detailed description by an (anonymous) squad member of how legally to raise testosterone levels before a race (the lengths these men would go to!). And then quick advice on how best to lower them again. The selection battles for the crew are well described and left me with the uneasy feeling that there might well have been people who had good grounds for feeling unhappy about not being in the crew.

The account of the replacement of Russ Glenn as cox just before the race is very sympathetic but, by contrast, leaves one in little doubt that the decision was hard but fair.

I was left with a great deal of sympathy - even liking - for the crew and for the Head Coach Duncan Holland, who left his position as Head Coach when his contract was not renewed after losing the Boat Race in 2008. And yet it was hard to avoid the conclusion that the crew, while winning, had significantly underperformed.

A couple of minor black spots: The book frustratingly does not examine the controversy over strokeman Thorsten Engelmann, the heavist man in Boat Race history at over 110 kg. He is the only person to have a Blue withdrawn when he left the University without completing his degree - but he comes across as a very sympathetic figure.

The photos are a disappointment - almost none of the crew as a crew, or of the race itself. Given that some of the people who play a key part in the story did not make the crew, it was a shame that none of them (other than Glenn) feature in the pictures. I would also have liked the statistics - the crew lists (both races) and times etc at the end.

I have worked in the organisational development field over recent years and the story is as relevant to team building as much as it is to rowing aficionados. I do recommend it.

A really useful and informative book., 15 Aug 2008
This is an excellent book explaining all the symbols on charts,I never realised how detailed charts were until I had this book open next to one. A really helpful book for sailors and a great referance to keep at hand.You won't regret spending the money to purchase this book.

A surprisingly fascinating read, 17 Jan 2007
I bought this book to help me while studying for RYA Day Skipper, but I'd recommend it not only to fellow sailors but anyone interested in charts and maps and how we know where we are on Earth. The first three chapters are a fascinating and important explanation of why we should treat maps and charts with caution as well as appreciation. The second part of the book is vital for any sailor as it lists the international standard for chart symbology, but goes much further than the dryness of Chart 5011, with explanations of how usage varies around the world. UK readers shouldn't worry that it was written for the US market, the author obviously has great respect for the British Admiralty charts and many examples use UK charts. Overall, highly recommended.

A really helpful book, 05 Feb 2006
This book has really helped me with my RYA studies and has also helped to explain some of the mystery of nautical charts. I would seriously recommend this book for anyone studying the RYA excams at any level. The book is clear & concise in its explanations.

It works!, 30 Jun 2008
After several years of unpleasant struggle to learn to learn front crawl as an adult, this book has brought me the success that I have been looking for and much more besides.

I work as a professional in ski teaching in the mountains in France and so I am very aware of many aspects of learning and teaching physical activity. 20 years in full time teaching has demonstrated to me that about 90% taught in any subject is guaranteed to be wrong information and that if a person is struggling and suffering then the fault is nearly always in the approach taken in either the learning or the coaching.

Swimming seems to be the same as in skiing in that instinctive movements cause a great deal of trouble and only learned movements work properly. Shaw bases his approach on this principle by directly relating it to Alexander Technique - which is about awareness of the body.

Swimming is also similar to skiing in that much is normally left down to natural selection. Awareness and understanding in both cases can circumvent this issue and bring amazing results with both adults and children - who would otherwise be sidelined. I was personally in the process of being sidelined as a swimmer and no friend or coach could really get me close to where I wanted to be. Shaw's book did the trick 100%. Suddenly I'm really enjoying my swimming. A kilometre of crawl isn't long enough or tiring when before I started the book 100m was my comfort zone limit.

It's a whole new universe of excellent experiences being just given to you. I was already a competent swimmer in general and a qualified open water diver - but was always reduced to zero by the crawl. I can also see now how incredibly inefficient most of the other swimmers are around me. How they strain their necks and their shoulders. All this was invisible to me before reading the book. The feelings of gliding and how all the actions coordinate are just great. I never thought I'd discover that water could be so much enjoyment and that it could be related to in this way.

I think there are very few swimmers at any level who would not get something out of this book.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

lyrical genius, 15 Jul 2008
Kate Rew is quite simply a lyrical genius - a unique voice - on every page of Wild Swim you can smell, taste and feel the water and the elements she describes ... it's magical, poetic and funny at the same time.

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Wonderfully ecelectic, 03 Oct 2000
One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Deakin's extensive and eclectic knowledge fills the book with all manner of interesting anecdote. His enthusiasm for swimming is contagious, and as a recent late learner make me look forward to the watery joys ahead.

a practical approach to colregs, 02 Sep 2006
There are 2 ways to learn Colregs. One is the rule and the reasons for the rule, light shape etc. - rather a classic intellectual approach to learning a body of work in its context. The other is a practical approach of repetition and natural progression groupinging similar topics.
This book uses the latter. With concentrated effort I was able to master all the previously difficult lights and shapes. I particularly liked the organization which does not simply follow the stucture of the Colregs, but still has a good cross reference for when you want to check what the rule actually says.
Essential for learning Colregs in a 'bootstrap' manner. Essential for RYA courses.

Thoroughly recommended by Royal Navy, 15 Apr 2006
This little book is the benchmark for all Seaman Officers in the Royal Navy and my dog eared copy is never far away. Clear, concise and utterly thorough the novice and the expert will find this book useful for learning and re-learning.

Excellent training aid for anyone taking RYA courses., 06 Feb 2002
This is probably the most comprehensive book written as a guide to learning the rules of the road. The layout is very easy to follow, the reader can study at their own pace, and you seem to learn the subect with little effort.

The claim that the Navy allow 6 hours to work through the book. I think the average seaman would require much longer.

This book should be on every sailor's book shelf, and is an ideal present for any seamen you know.

The complete way to learn, 03 Feb 2002
This book is the most competent way of learning rules of the sea road. It has all people need from explanations, to comprehensive ways to test yourself and your knowledge. I think you will find that this book will help many sea fearer through there training as I am and put them in to "the know how" in a capable manner as to be able to further there careers.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Very long winded, 23 Aug 2007
If you intend to buy this book go to the nearest bookshop and browse the pages first, it's very difficult to read and by page 92 I'd had enough.
I'm sure there is some good advice in the book but it's very difficult to get to the detail.


Fascinating insights as relevant to team building as to rowing, 11 Oct 2008
This is a fascinating inside look at the preparation by the 2007 winning Cambridge Boat Race crew by a sociologist who more or less lived with the squad throughout the period and who appears to have played a crucial role at some moments - for instance in helping sort out some disputes within one of the crews.

It comes close to Daniel Topolski's 'Boat Race', the story of the Oxford revival from 1973 to 1984 and for me one of the best books on rowing ever written. It is miles ahead of Topolski's account of the 1987 mutiny - for me far over rated.

I was once captain of the rowing club (Jesus College) right next to the Goldie Boathouse (the CUBC headquarters) and have known some Boat Race oarsmen quite well - e.g rowed in races with them. And yet it is a very closed world, not open to the uninitiated. I had no idea what went on in there and this book really does open the doors. I found it extremely interesting.

Some fasinating insights included the detailed description by an (anonymous) squad member of how legally to raise testosterone levels before a race (the lengths these men would go to!). And then quick advice on how best to lower them again. The selection battles for the crew are well described and left me with the uneasy feeling that there might well have been people who had good grounds for feeling unhappy about not being in the crew.

The account of the replacement of Russ Glenn as cox just before the race is very sympathetic but, by contrast, leaves one in little doubt that the decision was hard but fair.

I was left with a great deal of sympathy - even liking - for the crew and for the Head Coach Duncan Holland, who left his position as Head Coach when his contract was not renewed after losing the Boat Race in 2008. And yet it was hard to avoid the conclusion that the crew, while winning, had significantly underperformed.

A couple of minor black spots: The book frustratingly does not examine the controversy over strokeman Thorsten Engelmann, the heavist man in Boat Race history at over 110 kg. He is the only person to have a Blue withdrawn when he left the University without completing his degree - but he comes across as a very sympathetic figure.

The photos are a disappointment - almost none of the crew as a crew, or of the race itself. Given that some of the people who play a key part in the story did not make the crew, it was a shame that none of them (other than Glenn) feature in the pictures. I would also have liked the statistics - the crew lists (both races) and times etc at the end.

I have worked in the organisational development field over recent years and the story is as relevant to team building as much as it is to rowing aficionados. I do recommend it.

A really useful and informative book., 15 Aug 2008
This is an excellent book explaining all the symbols on charts,I never realised how detailed charts were until I had this book open next to one. A really helpful book for sailors and a great referance to keep at hand.You won't regret spending the money to purchase this book.

A surprisingly fascinating read, 17 Jan 2007
I bought this book to help me while studying for RYA Day Skipper, but I'd recommend it not only to fellow sailors but anyone interested in charts and maps and how we know where we are on Earth. The first three chapters are a fascinating and important explanation of why we should treat maps and charts with caution as well as appreciation. The second part of the book is vital for any sailor as it lists the international standard for chart symbology, but goes much further than the dryness of Chart 5011, with explanations of how usage varies around the world. UK readers shouldn't worry that it was written for the US market, the author obviously has great respect for the British Admiralty charts and many examples use UK charts. Overall, highly recommended.

A really helpful book, 05 Feb 2006
This book has really helped me with my RYA studies and has also helped