A Master Of Craft By: W. W. Jacobs (1863-1943)
A Master Of Craft by W. W. Jacobs is a captivating novel that delves into the world of shipbuilding and the pressures faced by those in the industry. The story centers around the skilled shipbuilder, William Holt, and his struggles to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. Jacobs takes a meticulous approach to character development, weaving intricate personalities that truly come alive on the pages. Holt, in particular, is a complex protagonist who is plagued with self-doubt and haunted by past mistakes. His determination to prove himself amidst fierce competition makes him both relatable and admirable. The novel beautifully captures the essence of the shipbuilding industry, skillfully portraying the technical aspects of the craft. Jacobs' attention to detail is commendable, as he effortlessly immerses readers in the world of ship construction. Whether it be the description of the wooden hulls or the intricacies of the rigging, the author's knowledge shines through, making the story all the more authentic. Moreover, A Master Of Craft masterfully explores the themes of ambition, loyalty, and the quest for redemption. The journey that Holt embarks on is not just about achieving success in shipbuilding, but also about finding redemption from past mistakes. This emotional depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it much more than a simple tale of craftsmanship. One of the book's strongest points is Jacobs' ability to create suspense and tension throughout the narrative. Each plot twist and unexpected turn keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next revelation. The author's skill in building anticipation is truly commendable, making for a gripping reading experience. However, A Master Of Craft does have its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly during the detailed descriptions of shipbuilding processes. Additionally, the multiple subplots and numerous secondary characters may sometimes become overwhelming and detract from the main story. Overall, A Master Of Craft is a compelling novel that skillfully combines elements of historical fiction, suspense, and drama. W. W. Jacobs' masterful storytelling captivates readers, drawing them into a world of shipbuilding and personal struggles. Despite a few drawbacks, this novel is undoubtedly a worthy addition to any reader's collection. First Page: A MASTER OF CRAFT. By W. W. JACOBS. 1899 CHAPTER I. A pretty girl stood alone on the jetty of an old fashioned wharf at Wapping, looking down upon the silent deck of a schooner below. No smoke issued from the soot stained cowl of the galley, and the fore scuttle and the companion were both inhospitably closed. The quiet of evening was over everything, broken only by the whirr of the paddles of a passenger steamer as it passed carefully up the centre of the river, or the plash of a lighterman's huge sweep as he piloted his unwieldy craft down on the last remnant of the ebb tide. In shore, various craft sat lightly on the soft Thames mud: some sheeting a rigid uprightness, others with their decks at various angles of discomfort. The girl stood a minute or two in thought, and put her small foot out tentatively towards the rigging some few feet distant. It was an awkward jump, and she was still considering it, when she heard footsteps behind, and a young man, increasing his pace as he saw her, came rapidly on to the jetty. "This is the Foam , isn't it?" enquired the girl, as he stood expectantly. "I want to see Captain Flower." "He went ashore about half an hour ago," said the other. The girl tapped impatiently with her foot. "You don't know what time he'll be back, I suppose?" she enquired... Continue reading book >>

A Master Of Craft By: W. W. Jacobs (1863-1943)

A Master Of Craft by W. W. Jacobs is a captivating novel that delves into the world of shipbuilding and the pressures faced by those in the industry. The story centers around the skilled shipbuilder, William Holt, and his struggles to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Jacobs takes a meticulous approach to character development, weaving intricate personalities that truly come alive on the pages. Holt, in particular, is a complex protagonist who is plagued with self-doubt and haunted by past mistakes. His determination to prove himself amidst fierce competition makes him both relatable and admirable.

The novel beautifully captures the essence of the shipbuilding industry, skillfully portraying the technical aspects of the craft. Jacobs' attention to detail is commendable, as he effortlessly immerses readers in the world of ship construction. Whether it be the description of the wooden hulls or the intricacies of the rigging, the author's knowledge shines through, making the story all the more authentic.

Moreover, A Master Of Craft masterfully explores the themes of ambition, loyalty, and the quest for redemption. The journey that Holt embarks on is not just about achieving success in shipbuilding, but also about finding redemption from past mistakes. This emotional depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it much more than a simple tale of craftsmanship.

One of the book's strongest points is Jacobs' ability to create suspense and tension throughout the narrative. Each plot twist and unexpected turn keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next revelation. The author's skill in building anticipation is truly commendable, making for a gripping reading experience.

However, A Master Of Craft does have its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly during the detailed descriptions of shipbuilding processes. Additionally, the multiple subplots and numerous secondary characters may sometimes become overwhelming and detract from the main story.

Overall, A Master Of Craft is a compelling novel that skillfully combines elements of historical fiction, suspense, and drama. W. W. Jacobs' masterful storytelling captivates readers, drawing them into a world of shipbuilding and personal struggles. Despite a few drawbacks, this novel is undoubtedly a worthy addition to any reader's collection.

First Page:

A MASTER OF CRAFT.

By W. W. JACOBS.

1899

CHAPTER I.

A pretty girl stood alone on the jetty of an old fashioned wharf at Wapping, looking down upon the silent deck of a schooner below. No smoke issued from the soot stained cowl of the galley, and the fore scuttle and the companion were both inhospitably closed. The quiet of evening was over everything, broken only by the whirr of the paddles of a passenger steamer as it passed carefully up the centre of the river, or the plash of a lighterman's huge sweep as he piloted his unwieldy craft down on the last remnant of the ebb tide. In shore, various craft sat lightly on the soft Thames mud: some sheeting a rigid uprightness, others with their decks at various angles of discomfort.

The girl stood a minute or two in thought, and put her small foot out tentatively towards the rigging some few feet distant. It was an awkward jump, and she was still considering it, when she heard footsteps behind, and a young man, increasing his pace as he saw her, came rapidly on to the jetty.

"This is the Foam , isn't it?" enquired the girl, as he stood expectantly. "I want to see Captain Flower."

"He went ashore about half an hour ago," said the other.

The girl tapped impatiently with her foot. "You don't know what time he'll be back, I suppose?" she enquired... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Sea stories

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Wikipedia – W. W. Jacobs
Wikipedia – A Master Of Craft

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