68 pages • 2 hours read
Dava SobelLongitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Longitude by Dava Sobel recounts the 18th-century quest to solve the problem of determining a ship's longitude at sea. It follows John Harrison, a clockmaker who created the first accurate maritime timepiece, and his prolonged struggle against astronomers advocating a celestial method. Replete with maritime disasters, brilliant innovations, and political intrigue, the narrative traces the eventual recognition of Harrison's pivotal contributions to navigation. Note: Historical maritime disasters are described.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Longitude by Dava Sobel receives high praise for its engaging narrative and accessible explanation of complex scientific history. Readers appreciate the seamless blend of storytelling and factual detail, though a few find the explanations occasionally oversimplified. Overall, it's lauded for making maritime history captivating and comprehensible.
Who Should Read Longitude?
Readers who enjoy historical narratives with a scientific twist, particularly those who appreciated The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester or The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton, will find Longitude by Dava Sobel captivating. It appeals to those fascinated by maritime history, innovation, and the quest for navigation solutions.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
1310L