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First You Have to Row a Little Boat: Reflections on Life & Living
In the bestselling tradition of Harold Kushner and Robert Fulghum, this inspiring little volume uses sailing as a metaphor for embarking upon the journey of life. Sailors and non-sailors alike will be enchanted by this simple yet compelling book which sheds a magical new light on the age-old search for self.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published May 21, 1993
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
June 26, 2012
I loved this book. I read it about two weeks after a big heartbreak and it helped ground me and look forward agai. And no matter the state if mind I started the book, its a quick, heart warming read.
October 10, 2016
I picture Richard Bode scanning the saltwater horizon with his youthful eyes and unintentionally crafting this beautiful elegy over the course of a young lifetime - a spark of insight here, a hastily written idea on a steno pad there - and finally gathering all of these ripe wisdoms, these little wonders of the world, into this simple culmination of a book. The journey of sailing and learning how to sail is truly such a meaningful metaphor for a fulfilling life.
I thank my father, who himself loves sailing, for giving this book to me at the right time - just as I finished my PhD and promptly decided to abandon that track for something that truly calls to my heart, intellect, and passion. After reading Bode's words about sailing, I feel even more sound in who I am and who I hope to be and to become.
I come now, at this late juncture of my life, to this sudden realization: I have no destination, no real destination, in the literal sense. The destination, the place toward which my life is tending, is the journey itself and not the final stopping place. How I get there is more important than whether I arrive, although I will arrive, and what I must try to remember, now more than ever, is to listen to the wind, and the wind will tell me what to do.
I am overwhelmed by the power of remembrance. I do not dwell in this precise and fleeting moment, but in the accumulation of all my moments for as far back as my human memory goes. I am my past, and to deny my past is to deny myself, because the life I lived right up to this ephemeral instant defines who I am. My life is not in me; it is on what I remember, and I do not possess what I remember so much as it possesses me.
June 6, 2012
A pleasant sojourn while away for a week at an intensive training course. I missed my sailing on both of the Saturdays so this book was my way of making up for it.
In some ways I was surprised how much it did. While there were a few details about learning aspects of boats and their movement, it was the friendly life advice that I so appreciate that this book also provided. It is so much easier listening in to other’s mistakes and learning from them. Yet somehow we still need to make mistakes of our own…
And so I did during this “break” from my own life as well. I found my presence was probably adding in some way to tensions in the household. Perhaps not for any direct reason of my own actions, but merely the awareness of a stranger observing the intimacy of life in a young family. It wasn’t always appropriate to “escape” to my room. But the perspective of time and anecdote helped me reflect on similar moments when my own children were so young.
I found it a pleasant surprise to read of the discovery of one’s own youthful freedom when compared to contemporaries who were trapped by complete families. Having lost his parents while young, Richard Bode lived with an aunt and uncle while spending much of his time finding mentors through the local community based around his interest in water and wind and wave. As one of seven children I certainly do envy him this freedom.
I particularly enjoyed the internal perspectives of learning.
Sailing is a very new activity for me, and I often find myself contemplating rather than doing. The commodore of our club is puzzled by my rigging a boat only to stand on the shore in deep thought rather than casting off. He cheerily calls: “Now it’s only practice” as I finally return from getting out on the water. “After I learn to rig properly BEFORE I go out!” I reply.
My mind takes me too many places for the boat to catch up. Books such as this help remind me of simpler times and ways of being. But they also let me know I was a dreamer then too, so the challenges are probably not that different despite age.
Apparently there is also another book by this writer, so now I’m off to see if I can find it…
In some ways I was surprised how much it did. While there were a few details about learning aspects of boats and their movement, it was the friendly life advice that I so appreciate that this book also provided. It is so much easier listening in to other’s mistakes and learning from them. Yet somehow we still need to make mistakes of our own…
And so I did during this “break” from my own life as well. I found my presence was probably adding in some way to tensions in the household. Perhaps not for any direct reason of my own actions, but merely the awareness of a stranger observing the intimacy of life in a young family. It wasn’t always appropriate to “escape” to my room. But the perspective of time and anecdote helped me reflect on similar moments when my own children were so young.
I found it a pleasant surprise to read of the discovery of one’s own youthful freedom when compared to contemporaries who were trapped by complete families. Having lost his parents while young, Richard Bode lived with an aunt and uncle while spending much of his time finding mentors through the local community based around his interest in water and wind and wave. As one of seven children I certainly do envy him this freedom.
I particularly enjoyed the internal perspectives of learning.
Sailing is a very new activity for me, and I often find myself contemplating rather than doing. The commodore of our club is puzzled by my rigging a boat only to stand on the shore in deep thought rather than casting off. He cheerily calls: “Now it’s only practice” as I finally return from getting out on the water. “After I learn to rig properly BEFORE I go out!” I reply.
My mind takes me too many places for the boat to catch up. Books such as this help remind me of simpler times and ways of being. But they also let me know I was a dreamer then too, so the challenges are probably not that different despite age.
Apparently there is also another book by this writer, so now I’m off to see if I can find it…
March 16, 2025
such a wholesome grandpa-core book! to many more of these 🥂
“before i could ‘be with what is,’ i had to give up what was and could be no more”
“before i could ‘be with what is,’ i had to give up what was and could be no more”
July 17, 2022
"For the truth is that I already know as much about my fate as I need to know. The day will come when I will die. So the only matter of consequence before me is what I will do with my allotted time. I can remain on shore, paralyzed with fear, or I can raise my sails and dip and soar in the breeze."
Even though we know certain things, the only time the wisdom makes sense is when we reach an actual realization. I think I read this book at the time in my life when the quote above is crucial for me to free myself of the fears accumulated over my past even though I am terrified of changing things up.
I wish to definitely read this book in the future and look back to this moment and feel that I tried. And that would be good enough, I think.
Even though we know certain things, the only time the wisdom makes sense is when we reach an actual realization. I think I read this book at the time in my life when the quote above is crucial for me to free myself of the fears accumulated over my past even though I am terrified of changing things up.
I wish to definitely read this book in the future and look back to this moment and feel that I tried. And that would be good enough, I think.
February 18, 2024
It was okay. It did not wow me but I was probably not its targeted audience.
July 4, 2017
As a boy, Richard Bode is enthralled with the boats that glide through the bay near his home. His first boat is nothing more than a dinghy, which he dutifully rows out of the creek and across the bay, each stroke bringing him closer to harnessing the power of the wind. As he learns about sailing, he learns about himself. He describes the lessons he learns while growing up and the sailing masters he meets along the way — the men who guided him at sea and in life.
I sympathized with the young boy as he watches the blue sloop skimming across the bay, as graceful as a swan. I shared his excitement when the beautiful boat he admired was finally his, and sailed along with him as he recounted a lifetime of adventures. And when the older man regretfully said farewell to his beautiful, beloved sloop, it seemed as though I had lost a friend too.
Through a simple story about sailing, Mr. Bode shares his reflections on life and living. It is a story about the human experience — one that sailors and landlubbers alike — can appreciate.
"As humans we live with the constant presumption of dominion. We believe that we own the world, that it belongs to us, that we have it under our firm control. But the sailor knows all to well the fallacy of this view. The sailor sits by his tiller, watching and waiting. He knows he isn't sovereign of earth and sky any more than the fish in the sea or the birds in the air. He responds to the subtle shiftings of the wind, the imperceptible ebbings of the tide. He changes course. He trims his sheets. He sails." - Richard Bode
I sympathized with the young boy as he watches the blue sloop skimming across the bay, as graceful as a swan. I shared his excitement when the beautiful boat he admired was finally his, and sailed along with him as he recounted a lifetime of adventures. And when the older man regretfully said farewell to his beautiful, beloved sloop, it seemed as though I had lost a friend too.
Through a simple story about sailing, Mr. Bode shares his reflections on life and living. It is a story about the human experience — one that sailors and landlubbers alike — can appreciate.
"As humans we live with the constant presumption of dominion. We believe that we own the world, that it belongs to us, that we have it under our firm control. But the sailor knows all to well the fallacy of this view. The sailor sits by his tiller, watching and waiting. He knows he isn't sovereign of earth and sky any more than the fish in the sea or the birds in the air. He responds to the subtle shiftings of the wind, the imperceptible ebbings of the tide. He changes course. He trims his sheets. He sails." - Richard Bode
March 4, 2017
As a sailor and one who savors the memories of the past, this book made me smile wistfully at so many points. The lessons one learns on a sailboat are life lessons and cannot be understated. Easy read. Good for those in one of life's many transitions and fans of Long Island's south shore.
June 11, 2013
I really appreciated the author's life lessons and using sailing as a metaphor. If I knew more about boats I probably would have given this a five.
Read
July 7, 2022Fabulous. A must read.
June 6, 2023
I love historical events like this.
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/boats-for-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/boats-for-...
https://theboatyacht.com/boats-for-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/boats-for-...
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/boats-for-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/boats-for-...
https://theboatyacht.com/boats-for-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/boats-for-...
October 10, 2018
This is a book that is best enjoyed in short sections. I found that I wanted, even needed, to stop at the end of each chapter to absorb what the author had written. As a sailor, I fully understood his vivid descriptions of learning about the wind, the weather and the water and about becoming one with your boat as well as the minute details about such things as parts of the boat, points of sail and trimming the sails. I didn't need any time to understand the parts about boating. But I wanted to take the time to savor, reflect on and internalize the simple truths he eloquently brought up: living in the moment, following your passion, slowing down to get your bearings, trusting in powers beyond yourself.
Bode made his points, lessons he had wanted all along to share with his children, not didactically but by life experiences and with compassion. Although he occasionally used other people to reveal the traps we all fall into, the mistakes we all make, the misconceptions we all might hold, more often than not he gently reveals how, in sailing, he made mistakes himself, learned from them and then applied them--either in his youth or later in life--to basic tenets for living a good life.
This book is inspiring and it is a gift of wisdom in an unassuming form.
Bode made his points, lessons he had wanted all along to share with his children, not didactically but by life experiences and with compassion. Although he occasionally used other people to reveal the traps we all fall into, the mistakes we all make, the misconceptions we all might hold, more often than not he gently reveals how, in sailing, he made mistakes himself, learned from them and then applied them--either in his youth or later in life--to basic tenets for living a good life.
This book is inspiring and it is a gift of wisdom in an unassuming form.
May 9, 2021
As one who has been around boats and sailing for 30 or 40 years, I loved the stories in this delightful little book. But its strength is a metaphor for life and is one you could return to over and over as you travel down your own road of life, from one's friendship with a mentor, to your explorations of the complexities of life and your abilities ( or failures) all the way your explorations beyond a love affair with boats. The experiences you gain in an endeavor such as mastering (or not mastering!) your adventures remind you of the wonderful pleasures you've experienced along the way. Boating, or otherwise. The sum total of these experiences become who you are and remind you as you journey on to be aware of your need to be that mentor, recognizing that you aren't alone and can help others see the beauty and challenge in life.
June 7, 2020
I LOVED this book so much I immediately read Bode's other two books - Blue Sloop at Dawn and Beachcombing At Miramar. Loved all three. Couldn't find a biography anywhere. So in the spirit of 'If not me, then who?' I culled everything I could find - mostly from Bode's own words, book forwards and book jackets, plus a little bit online - and wrote this brief biography at my blog, which also includes book excerpts:
***** RICHARD BODE BIOGRAPHY *****
https://josephgunnwriting.wordpress.c...
This blog post gets hits from all over the world every single day. Richard is still reaching a devoted audience, and it is my pleasure and honor to contribute in my own small way to his legacy.
***** RICHARD BODE BIOGRAPHY *****
https://josephgunnwriting.wordpress.c...
This blog post gets hits from all over the world every single day. Richard is still reaching a devoted audience, and it is my pleasure and honor to contribute in my own small way to his legacy.
March 13, 2024
Sometimes you need to take a break from your usual to read something a little slower and a little more real. Something that reminds you of life and the lessons inherent in it that are too easy to forget. First you have to row a little boat did that for me. It made me nostalgic for sailing in an unexpected way, as I’ve never sailed before, but the feelings and lessons in it transfer well to my own memories growing up on and around the water. This was the perfect book to read outside on a beautiful day and reminded me to disconnect from my phone and reconnect with the world around me. I found myself feeling the sun on my face and hearing the birds in the trees with a little more fervor as I meandered my way through Richard Bodes recollections.
January 30, 2019
Excellent, inspiring read. After several of my friends recommended this book, I finally read it and glad that I did. I just recently moved aboard our sailboat, so I enjoy reading anything about sailing. Bode's book isn't just about sailing though, and really, it's more about navigating through the sea of life. Bode takes us on a journey of his early years aboard his little blue sloop and shares the life lessons it taught him.
July 14, 2020
The author writes very well and successfully transported me onto the waves of his youthful sailing adventures. However I felt the sailing metaphor has insufficient breeze to carry it very far. The author also has an unfortunate habit of generalizing and judging those who are not as enlightened as he feels himself to be. I think his subject is better suited for an essay or blog rather than a full book.
September 2, 2022
From a difficult childhood alleviated by his introduction to sailing, Richard Bode progressed to a lucrative career in technical writing. A midlife crisis brought him back to write about his love of sailing, the mastery of wind and sails providing a metaphor and paradigm to survive difficulties and relish the easier times. Rich in imagery and description, with beautiful vistas of 1940s Long Island, this little gem will fill you with well-being.
March 26, 2025
this book is good, easy reading is a good every once and while. sailing as a metaphor for life is one of my favorites. for being a bit of free throw, it makes the 6 point play. I see how this approach to life makes sense to the mind of a sailor or those who deal with the sea.
I like how the book presents it’s lessons. it doesn’t really teach you anything directly, the attitude is more - put up your sails and see for yourself.
I like how the book presents it’s lessons. it doesn’t really teach you anything directly, the attitude is more - put up your sails and see for yourself.
February 6, 2024
I don't know anything about sailing but the metaphors were clearly and generally, simply, applied to the rest of one's life. I did not find it particularly profound and it was somewhat troubling that the author's own life evidently was affected by missing some of his own teachings. But those of us without sin should cast the first stone.
December 20, 2019
I don't think I'll remember any of the particular stories or lessons from Bode, but I'll remember the way in which he (at least in this book) lets his life experiences change who he is as a human. Life changes you and you need to be aware that it does.
February 14, 2021
I don’t know much about boats but I really enjoyed this book. Bode recounts learning to sail as a child and how the things he learned helped him navigate life. This book was a great way to reflect on my own life. The perfect book to read when you’re going through a rough patch.
Read
March 11, 2021I appreciated his story and recognized the many places he lived, as I have lived there also. His life lessons based on sailing were profound and enlightening. I recommend it to you if you are a sailor or someone who enjoys the wind and the water.
July 15, 2021
Kind of a pompous little book about how to live your life in the vein of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance on on sailboats as opposed to motorcycles. Too much "this is how you should live your life." "And my way is the only way."
July 28, 2021
As a fellow sailor, I can relate to many of the stories in Bode's book. However, he takes everything and turns it into a metaphor on life. Every chapter has the same outline. You can predict when the "lesson" is coming. It got old fast.
October 5, 2021
This is not just a book for those who sail. It’s a book about life and lessons learned along the way. It’s a bit of travel and a great memoir. I love the writing snd yes, it was a little book. 200 pages of pleasure.
August 21, 2025
A lovely story of the authors life told through their real life sailing experiences. No need to be a sailor to appreciate the tales told while having an insight into the authors unique life experience
June 7, 2017
A touching little book that a neighbor gave to me.
August 22, 2017
Melanie 2017
December 23, 2017
SO cute. Fun little life lessons and just a fun read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews