Sir Francis Drake's Famous Voyage Round the World   By: Francis Pretty

Sir Francis Drake's Famous Voyage Round the World by Francis Pretty is an enthralling account of one of the most significant voyages in history. This captivating memoir takes readers on an extraordinary journey across the globe, offering a unique perspective into the life and adventures of the iconic explorer, Sir Francis Drake.

The author, Francis Pretty, who was a member of Drake's crew during this famed expedition, provides a firsthand narrative that immerses readers in the heart of the action. Pretty's writing style is both engaging and vivid, enabling readers to visualize the awe-inspiring landscapes, turbulent encounters, and astonishing discoveries that shaped the voyage.

One of the remarkable aspects of this book is the sheer magnitude of the voyage itself. Drake circumnavigated the globe, becoming the first Englishman to achieve such a feat. The challenges faced by the crew are vividly described, from treacherous storms and scarce provisions to encounters with indigenous peoples and skirmishes with Spanish galleons. Pretty's accounts of these events are filled with suspense, painting a thrilling picture of the often perilous conditions at sea.

What truly sets this book apart is its attention to detail. Pretty meticulously documents the natural wonders and exotic cultures encountered during the journey, providing invaluable historical insight. Readers are treated to vivid descriptions of landscapes, flora, and fauna, allowing them to marvel at the diversity of the world.

Moreover, the book delves into the motivations behind Drake's voyage, shedding light on the political and economic climate of the time. Pretty offers a glimpse into the complexities of Elizabethan England and the geopolitical ambitions that propelled Drake's audacious undertaking. This historical context adds depth and significance to the narrative, transforming the book into more than just a thrilling adventure tale.

While the book successfully captures the essence of a remarkable voyage, it is worth noting that Pretty's perspective is limited to his role as a member of Drake's crew. As such, the storytelling is biased towards the experiences and achievements of the English, occasionally overlooking the impact of their actions on indigenous communities. A more balanced perspective would have added further richness to the narrative.

Overall, Sir Francis Drake's Famous Voyage Round the World is a captivating account of an extraordinary journey. Francis Pretty's intimate knowledge of the events, coupled with his engaging writing style, immerses readers in the world of a daring explorer. This book is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone who wishes to embark on an unforgettable literary voyage.

First Page:

The 15th day of November, in the year of our Lord 1577, Master Francis Drake, with a fleet of five ships and barks, and to the number of 164 men, gentlemen and sailors, departed from Plymouth, giving out his pretended voyage for Alexandria. But the wind falling contrary, he was forced the next morning to put into Falmouth Haven, in Cornwall, where such and so terrible a tempest took us, as few men have seen the like, and was indeed so vehement that all our ships were like to have gone to wrack. But it pleased God to preserve us from that extremity and to afflict us only for that present with these two particulars: the mast of our Admiral, which was the Pelican, was cut overboard for the safeguard of the ship, and the Marigold was driven ashore, and somewhat bruised. For the repairing of which damages we returned again to Plymouth; and having recovered those harms, and brought the ships again to good state, we set forth the second time from Plymouth, and set sail the 13th day of December following... Continue reading book >>