The events it records are a true story; a story which tells how in 1899, the Lynmouth lifeboat crew, unable to launch their boat from Lynmouth itself, took it over Exmoor and set out on their mission from the next harbour along the coast, Porlock. This meant that they had to take a three and a half ton lifeboat 13 miles through, and up and down some very rough ground.A true book of heroes.
'The Overland Launch'is a book which should be read by all, it is a blatant reminder of what lacks in todays society. A village setting of times gone by and with its inhabitants sharing a bond of unique comradery. It is an excellent depiction of a true story of unity, dedication and determination to overcome all obstacles and to rescue those in peril at sea! A perfect picture was painted by the descriptive setting and the story was further enhanced with hints of a young boys education, stimulated as it was with greek mythology.
Without doubt C. Walter Hodges was the inspirational literary artist of his time and his books remain to inspire us today...
Beautifully illustrated by C. Walter Hodges, a well-known illustrator, this is based on a well-known west country shipwreck which illustrated the dedication of the lifeboatmen. It is a very prosaic book, because Westcountrymen going about their job, are prosaic men, but it captures their determination beautifully