A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks

Maritime archaeologist and novelist Gibbins (author of the Jack Howard and “Total War” series) offers an intriguing historical account filtered through the lens of 12 notable shipwrecks. Gibbins, who is a skilled diver himself, describes the challenges inherent in exploring these underwater sites. Before the invention of scuba equipment, it was often impossible to reach a shipwreck, much less excavate it. Even with the right gear, few archaeologists are trained to dive as well as excavate. Gibbins catalogues the finds from each ship, discussing how these objects speak to changes in technology, religion, medicine, literacy, and art, from the Bronze Age to the present. For example, he identifies medical instruments on one wreck and quotes from a contemporaneous publication that describes the groundbreaking procedures in which these instruments were used. Gibbins provides a fascinating look at how underwater archaeology and history can work together to create a picture of human history and its progress over time. Unfortunately, Kent Klineman’s narration leaves something to be desired. Jerky phrasing and pauses over the place names and phrases make this an uncomfortable listening experience.