biographies

This is a charming and insightful autobiography by the living legend of 20th century yacht design. It is beautifully produced with many glorious photographs and illustrations. But its outstanding quality is the warmth and modesty of the writer which shines through his personal account of his contribution to yacht design and the highlights of Sparkman & Stephens' record over the past 70 years. Chapters on his early years, the breaks he had as a fledgling designer, the Americas Cup successes, the wartime development of the DUKW, his philosophy of design and approach to rating rules for yacht racing will enthrall a wide readership.

Owners of S&S designed yachts - and many others besides - will doubtless be captivated by this book. No wonder the first printing is already a sell-out.

The world's most successful yacht designer and a superstar in the sport of sailing, Olin Stephens writes the story of his long life around boats. There's much here to interest sailors -- including stories of the America's Cup and other key races -- as well as a lot that's controversial about racing, racing rules, Dennis Conner, and the Cup. Olin sailed in two Cup winners, designed six of them, and designed and raced winners of other major races.

This is also the story of a fascinating, sensitive, and humble man, as you can see in the opening sentences: "I was lucky; i had a goal. As far back as I can remember I wanted to design fast boats."

Engagingly written and beautifully published, this is a book for any sailor.