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The Boy Behind the Gate: How His Dream of Sailing Around the World Became a Six-year Odyssey of Adventure, Fear, Discovery and Love
"It's Now or Never." Goodbye Comfortable Life, Hello Adventure.
A Lifelong Dream Comes True
Larry had dreamed of sailing around the world ever since he first stepped foot into a sailboat at the age of 13. He held onto that dream for 30 years until one day he realized "It's now or never." He left his corporate job, trading his comfortable executive life for adventure.
The Scary and Humorous Stories Leap Off the Page
Award-winning author, Larry Jacobson, brings you aboard JULIA as he embarks on a 6-year odyssey at sea after leaving everything behind to make his lifelong dream a reality. He and his crew dodged pirates in the Gulf of Aden, battled 30-foot seas and 60-knot winds in the Red Sea, were chased by Komodo dragons in Indonesia, had multiple equipment breakdowns, nearly lost their mast in the Coral Sea, and pushed the envelope with Larry nearly losing his life scuba diving. The vivid word descriptions and full color photos bring the story to life.
This page-turner will keep you entertained and inspired at the same time. Definitely a book for everyone. A true story memoir packed with lessons from the ocean that served as a teacher of seamanship, personal strength, growth, leadership, and perseverance while Larry and his crew discovered themselves and the world. You'll sail 44,000 nautical miles and live the ups and downs of this incredible adventure.
Different from Other Sailing Books
This is not just the story of fulfilling a lifelong passion. It is also a story of absorbing wisdom from the sea, and from the people they met along the way. And it's a deep dive into Larry's thinking as you experience the changes that took place in him recounted in his very personal journals. Step aboard and share the life lessons earned on the voyage as you sail around the world from the comfort of your home. The book is life-changing.
If you are wondering whether you should start living your dreams, this book will confirm you should. We are each given one great opportunity in life. What are you going to do with yours?
Winner of 6 literary
Jacobson's writing is witty, insightful, engaging, and embracing. You won't want to put the book down!
A Lifelong Dream Comes True
Larry had dreamed of sailing around the world ever since he first stepped foot into a sailboat at the age of 13. He held onto that dream for 30 years until one day he realized "It's now or never." He left his corporate job, trading his comfortable executive life for adventure.
The Scary and Humorous Stories Leap Off the Page
Award-winning author, Larry Jacobson, brings you aboard JULIA as he embarks on a 6-year odyssey at sea after leaving everything behind to make his lifelong dream a reality. He and his crew dodged pirates in the Gulf of Aden, battled 30-foot seas and 60-knot winds in the Red Sea, were chased by Komodo dragons in Indonesia, had multiple equipment breakdowns, nearly lost their mast in the Coral Sea, and pushed the envelope with Larry nearly losing his life scuba diving. The vivid word descriptions and full color photos bring the story to life.
This page-turner will keep you entertained and inspired at the same time. Definitely a book for everyone. A true story memoir packed with lessons from the ocean that served as a teacher of seamanship, personal strength, growth, leadership, and perseverance while Larry and his crew discovered themselves and the world. You'll sail 44,000 nautical miles and live the ups and downs of this incredible adventure.
Different from Other Sailing Books
This is not just the story of fulfilling a lifelong passion. It is also a story of absorbing wisdom from the sea, and from the people they met along the way. And it's a deep dive into Larry's thinking as you experience the changes that took place in him recounted in his very personal journals. Step aboard and share the life lessons earned on the voyage as you sail around the world from the comfort of your home. The book is life-changing.
If you are wondering whether you should start living your dreams, this book will confirm you should. We are each given one great opportunity in life. What are you going to do with yours?
Winner of 6 literary
Jacobson's writing is witty, insightful, engaging, and embracing. You won't want to put the book down!
359 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
13 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 29, 2013
On a personal level, I loved this book because I too am a sailor of the open ocean. It took me back to the sea where I long to be once again. The Challenges he faced in preparation, being "out there" and returning are exactly what I am facing in the moment as I write this review.
On a global level, a level which speaks to all of us Humans, no matter what our race, gender, political views or sexual orientation are...we can relate to the story of a fellow human who is driven by what he or she is Passionate about in Life. We all have Dreams of what our life would be like if things were different. Larry Jacobson, through the telling of his true life adventure upon the sea, has given us a glimpse into a world where a fellow human dreamed a big dream as a child. A child who did not have the means to fulfill the dream at the time and over the course of 30 years or so, through facing all the walls before him, kept on going to make his dream come true. He did not quit. He did not let others tell him what to do. If someone told him he was crazy or stupid, he did not listen to the others...he listened to his Inner Voice and kept going. It took work, hard work, as all our Dreams will take, and he did it...he made his dream come true.
Even if you are not a sailor, the book will inspire you to think about your own individual Passion while images of far off lands are generated in your mind.
I gave the book five stars because it has inspired me to keep going. I know what my Passion is...Adventure...and I will keep working on getting back to the sea once again and this time will sail around the world alone (well not totally, this time when I take to the sea, I will have my dog with me :)). A Dream of mine since I was a child.
On a global level, a level which speaks to all of us Humans, no matter what our race, gender, political views or sexual orientation are...we can relate to the story of a fellow human who is driven by what he or she is Passionate about in Life. We all have Dreams of what our life would be like if things were different. Larry Jacobson, through the telling of his true life adventure upon the sea, has given us a glimpse into a world where a fellow human dreamed a big dream as a child. A child who did not have the means to fulfill the dream at the time and over the course of 30 years or so, through facing all the walls before him, kept on going to make his dream come true. He did not quit. He did not let others tell him what to do. If someone told him he was crazy or stupid, he did not listen to the others...he listened to his Inner Voice and kept going. It took work, hard work, as all our Dreams will take, and he did it...he made his dream come true.
Even if you are not a sailor, the book will inspire you to think about your own individual Passion while images of far off lands are generated in your mind.
I gave the book five stars because it has inspired me to keep going. I know what my Passion is...Adventure...and I will keep working on getting back to the sea once again and this time will sail around the world alone (well not totally, this time when I take to the sea, I will have my dog with me :)). A Dream of mine since I was a child.
February 12, 2016
Lets break this book up into thirds. The first third was dreadfully painful. There were so many mixed emotions, feelings and I almost closed the book. But my curiosity got the better of me and I hung in there.
The second third really picked up and improved things - I was imagining all of their frustrations, adventures and emotionally the author became so much more descriptive not really of sailing, but all of the things surrounding their sailing adventure. I felt he began looking more outside of himself and not just on his inner-self.
The last third - simply put - a bit sad because they decided to end their adventure - I had half hoped they would get the urge to press on in a different direction. But I must admit - the return home was amazing - one can only imagine sailing back after that may years under the Golden Gate!
Well done Larry - for what started out as a big unknown, I was hoping for a second book and more adventures.
The second third really picked up and improved things - I was imagining all of their frustrations, adventures and emotionally the author became so much more descriptive not really of sailing, but all of the things surrounding their sailing adventure. I felt he began looking more outside of himself and not just on his inner-self.
The last third - simply put - a bit sad because they decided to end their adventure - I had half hoped they would get the urge to press on in a different direction. But I must admit - the return home was amazing - one can only imagine sailing back after that may years under the Golden Gate!
Well done Larry - for what started out as a big unknown, I was hoping for a second book and more adventures.
March 1, 2012
I was completely captivated from the first few pages of the book. I kept reading and realized that a couple of hours had flown by. The book is much more than a gay mans sailing story. For me it was about inspiration. To follow a dream, a passion, no matter the consequences. Its a crazy, fun adventure and I loved reading every page of this book. I felt that I was on this awesome journey with Larry and I never wanted to put the book down. In all honesty, I didn't want to finish this book because it meant the journey ended. But I realized, it's time for me to go on my own journey and this book is very encouraging in following your passions.
May 20, 2013
I love this kind of book--an outdoor adventure that's also introspective, thoughtful, and revealing of self. Larry Jacobson created a beautiful story of change and growth, compiling his journal notes and emails from circumnavigating the globe, then adding in postscripts. It's inspiring that a "regular" guy took on a big dream like this. He started with no more preparation than anyone else, but he charted a course through all the potential barriers and did a marvelous thing: lived big, wrote a gorgeous book, and went on to share it with other writers and dreamers. Thanks, Larry. The love is palpable in these pages.
March 30, 2012
Larry Jacobson inspires us to put our fears aside and follow our dreams. He did something many of us can only dream of: he sold his business, bought a sailboat, and circumnavigated the world during his six year adventure. All along, you feel Larry's emotions: his fears, his excitement, and overcoming the challenges and dangers he and Ken faced. This is a beautiful story with stunning photography. I highly recommend it for those wishing to take the plunge and overcome their own fears.
May 10, 2011
Fascinating book. If you like travel documentaries and sailing, you'll enjoy this book.
March 17, 2012
Interesting saga. We met him and Ken at a book club event and they are truly fun people. I will look at boats and marinas in a new light now.
March 20, 2012
A very interesting book about a six-year journey around the world. It depicts both the highs and the lows of such a trip... Each with a cocktail in their hands. An easy read, but lots of fun.
April 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. Its a captivating look at the trials and tribulations of true adventure, love, and the search for purpose. What a decision it was to embark on such an adventure, and how glad I am that it was made, because this book made me question my own perspectives on the stasis of my own life, and how solid, or not, my roots really are. Perhaps, as the author suggests, a leap of faith is sometimes required to really discover what is important in life. I would highly reccomend this book for anyone that dreams of more, but feels like the magic they so desire is just out of reach.
It is not as far as you think. Larry Jacobson proves that its not. If wish to understand what following through on a crazy dream really feels like, this book will provide you with exactly that, and more. 5/5
It is not as far as you think. Larry Jacobson proves that its not. If wish to understand what following through on a crazy dream really feels like, this book will provide you with exactly that, and more. 5/5
September 7, 2020
There’s that feeling of freedom you get, being on the open road, but did you ever consider the feeling of the open sea? As a sailor’s daughter, I had my chance, and so can you, by going on a journey around the world with Captain Larry and his crew. You might be surprised where it takes you.
You don’t need to be a sailor to appreciate this tale. When you think about the biggest dream you’ve ever had in your life, and what it took to achieve it, or if you’re wondering whether or not you have the courage to go for it, this book is for you. Larry will be your guide all along the way, cheering you on, and giving you pointers.
I have the good fortune to know Larry professionally, and his book was on my list. Thankfully, I just found out that it’s on Audible, read by Larry himself! I have to say, it’s a very enjoyable read when you listen to it. Much of the story is told in “Captain’s Log” style, as he kept a journal on the entire 6 year journey. YES, it took 6 years, amazing, right? I guess going in I thought it was going to be more about the sights and the navigation and filled with sailing lingo, but it was so much more. Sometimes it’s very matter of fact, and, at other times, filled with emotion. That balance was just right, too. I was incredibly curious and often astounded by the mechanical breakdowns, and how to buy food and get through customs and properly bribe officials! I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of both pristine beaches and roiling three story high seas. My heart was often racing right along!
The emotional center of the book was about relationships, something I never considered, as I always pictured Larry making this journey by himself, and how lonely that might be. Turns out, he needed all kinds of help and had lots of different crew along the way. Many friendships were forged through good times and bad. There were wonderful celebrations, some tough arguments, and a few very hairy situations. Larry was going through a very personal journey along the way, too, letting go of an old love, navigating a new love. Most importantly, Larry was on a deepening his relationship with self, and he often passed along his lessons learned directly to the reader, just like he’s your personal life coach.
If you enjoy motivational speakers, if you read books about personal development, this is great choice. I would liken it to books by the great Andy Andrews, who uses story and parable to make his point to the reader. Larry, like Andy Andrews, is a gifted motivational speaker and author. Larry, also like Andy, knows how to sprinkle in humor effectively, and it is most welcome when things are going wrong, showcasing his resilient spirit. Storytelling is the most effective way to impact the reader, so I would choose this over a dry “how to” leadership book any day of the week.
The Boy Behind The Gate is a story we can all relate to. Perhaps you have a big bold, audacious wish that you’ve held inside for years, decades. But, maybe, just maybe, this true story will remind you that it still is possible to fulfill your dreams, or that it’s not too late to come up with a new dream. It may not be easy, and it might take longer than you thought, and, most certainly, you won’t have to go it alone.
You don’t need to be a sailor to appreciate this tale. When you think about the biggest dream you’ve ever had in your life, and what it took to achieve it, or if you’re wondering whether or not you have the courage to go for it, this book is for you. Larry will be your guide all along the way, cheering you on, and giving you pointers.
I have the good fortune to know Larry professionally, and his book was on my list. Thankfully, I just found out that it’s on Audible, read by Larry himself! I have to say, it’s a very enjoyable read when you listen to it. Much of the story is told in “Captain’s Log” style, as he kept a journal on the entire 6 year journey. YES, it took 6 years, amazing, right? I guess going in I thought it was going to be more about the sights and the navigation and filled with sailing lingo, but it was so much more. Sometimes it’s very matter of fact, and, at other times, filled with emotion. That balance was just right, too. I was incredibly curious and often astounded by the mechanical breakdowns, and how to buy food and get through customs and properly bribe officials! I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of both pristine beaches and roiling three story high seas. My heart was often racing right along!
The emotional center of the book was about relationships, something I never considered, as I always pictured Larry making this journey by himself, and how lonely that might be. Turns out, he needed all kinds of help and had lots of different crew along the way. Many friendships were forged through good times and bad. There were wonderful celebrations, some tough arguments, and a few very hairy situations. Larry was going through a very personal journey along the way, too, letting go of an old love, navigating a new love. Most importantly, Larry was on a deepening his relationship with self, and he often passed along his lessons learned directly to the reader, just like he’s your personal life coach.
If you enjoy motivational speakers, if you read books about personal development, this is great choice. I would liken it to books by the great Andy Andrews, who uses story and parable to make his point to the reader. Larry, like Andy Andrews, is a gifted motivational speaker and author. Larry, also like Andy, knows how to sprinkle in humor effectively, and it is most welcome when things are going wrong, showcasing his resilient spirit. Storytelling is the most effective way to impact the reader, so I would choose this over a dry “how to” leadership book any day of the week.
The Boy Behind The Gate is a story we can all relate to. Perhaps you have a big bold, audacious wish that you’ve held inside for years, decades. But, maybe, just maybe, this true story will remind you that it still is possible to fulfill your dreams, or that it’s not too late to come up with a new dream. It may not be easy, and it might take longer than you thought, and, most certainly, you won’t have to go it alone.
January 7, 2019
I've read this book over and over again and still think it's an amazing story. And I might say, very well -written! Of course, I should disclose that I am the author. Give it a try, I think you'll love it! Available on Amazon in hard-bound, kindle, and audible.
LJ
LJ
May 27, 2011
Engrossing, epic story of a couple's round-the-world journey.
May 10, 2014
Could not finish... I do not care about somebody's sexual orientation but when it is being promoted on almost every page it becomes very annoying very fast.
July 7, 2015
nice book but too much ghay shit
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews