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True Spirit: The True Story of a 16-Year-Old Australian Who Sailed Solo, Nonstop, and Unassisted Around the World
*Now a Netflix film* The inspiring true story of Jessica Watson—an Australian teenager who set out to sail solo around the world!On May 15, 2010, after 210 days at sea and more than 22,000 nautical miles, 16-year-old Jessica Watson sailed her 33-foot boat triumphantly back to land. She had done it. She was the youngest person to sail solo, unassisted, and nonstop around the world. Jessica spent years preparing for this moment, years focused on achieving her dream. Yet only eight months before, she collided with a 63,000-ton freighter. It seemed to many that she’d failed before she’d even begun, but Jessica brushed herself off, held her head high, and kept going. Told in Jessica’s own words, True Spirit is the story of her epic voyage. It tells how a young girl, once afraid of everything, decided to test herself on an extraordinary adventure that included gale-force winds, mountainous waves, hazardous icebergs, and extreme loneliness on a vast sea, with no land in sight and no help close at hand. True Spirit is an inspiring story of risk, guts, determination, and achievement that ultimately proves we all have the power to live our dreams—no matter how big or small.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
October 29, 2023
40 foot waves! No worries. 50 mile an hour winds! Ha...piece of cake. Broken dunny! Easy fix.
Very, very early, every Sunday, I cycle the Brisbane River Loop. A short 35 Km route that takes me over the Goodwill Bridge. From there, you can see Ella's Pink Lady (Jessica Watson's boat) in the Brisbane Maritime Museum where she's on display (the boat, not Jessica). I used to occasionally stop and marvel at how small the boat looks...compared to how BIG the ocean is. I'd think how brave this skinny little Aussie girl was. Even though she completed her round the world trip 10 years ago, I still hadn't gotten around to reading her book. Then, for some reason, Ella's Pink Lady was gone! Thankfully to return after restoration. This made me think I'd better read Jessica's book soon in case it disappears too!
What a brave and inspiring young woman! Only 16 and facing conditions that would have many (if not most) big, burly males filling their undies with brown nuggets. It seems that the biggest trials Jessica Watson had to face however, came before, and after, her trip. I just didn't want this book to end. There are not many books I can say that about. I'm going to the Museum now so I can get a close look at Pink Lady...and maybe even touch her smooth pink hull. (The boat's, not Jessica's.)
Very, very early, every Sunday, I cycle the Brisbane River Loop. A short 35 Km route that takes me over the Goodwill Bridge. From there, you can see Ella's Pink Lady (Jessica Watson's boat) in the Brisbane Maritime Museum where she's on display (the boat, not Jessica). I used to occasionally stop and marvel at how small the boat looks...compared to how BIG the ocean is. I'd think how brave this skinny little Aussie girl was. Even though she completed her round the world trip 10 years ago, I still hadn't gotten around to reading her book. Then, for some reason, Ella's Pink Lady was gone! Thankfully to return after restoration. This made me think I'd better read Jessica's book soon in case it disappears too!
What a brave and inspiring young woman! Only 16 and facing conditions that would have many (if not most) big, burly males filling their undies with brown nuggets. It seems that the biggest trials Jessica Watson had to face however, came before, and after, her trip. I just didn't want this book to end. There are not many books I can say that about. I'm going to the Museum now so I can get a close look at Pink Lady...and maybe even touch her smooth pink hull. (The boat's, not Jessica's.)
January 10, 2012
True Spirit: The Aussie Girl Who Took on the World by Jessica Watson
Reviewed by: Kimberly Reikow
Have you ever dreamed of going on an adventure to a far off land all by yourself? What if that adventure took you throughout the major oceans in the world? From October of 2009 to May of 2010, 16 year old Jessica Watson circumnavigated the globe, making herself the youngest person to sail non-stop, solo, and unassisted around the world. Throughout her seven month journey, Jessica wrote in her blog about all the amazing and terrifying things she encountered; like being hit by a giant barge, measuring at over 700 feet long (compared to her 34 foot long boat), and seeing waves over 22 feet tall. She also writes of the lightning storms she sails through and the multiple knockdowns she lives through while the enormous ocean waves knocked her sailboat around like a rubber duck in a bathtub.
Jessica gives her readers a taste of what being on the ocean is like through her descriptive and exciting blog entries (which were eventually made into this book). Though Jessica faced some near-death situations during her 210 days at sea, she learned a lot about self-motivation and the importance of believing in one’s self. Jessica’s story is one that I will always remember while sailing on my family’s sailboat. Knowing how much work it is to sail our boat (which is the same size as Jessica’s) with four people crewing, I hold a high amount of respect for Jessica and her knowledge of sailing—especially with her being so young while taking on such an enormous adventure.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who yearns for adventure, especially those who may believe they are too young to live their dreams; Jessica’s motivation and strength will quickly change your mind.
Reviewed by: Kimberly Reikow
Have you ever dreamed of going on an adventure to a far off land all by yourself? What if that adventure took you throughout the major oceans in the world? From October of 2009 to May of 2010, 16 year old Jessica Watson circumnavigated the globe, making herself the youngest person to sail non-stop, solo, and unassisted around the world. Throughout her seven month journey, Jessica wrote in her blog about all the amazing and terrifying things she encountered; like being hit by a giant barge, measuring at over 700 feet long (compared to her 34 foot long boat), and seeing waves over 22 feet tall. She also writes of the lightning storms she sails through and the multiple knockdowns she lives through while the enormous ocean waves knocked her sailboat around like a rubber duck in a bathtub.
Jessica gives her readers a taste of what being on the ocean is like through her descriptive and exciting blog entries (which were eventually made into this book). Though Jessica faced some near-death situations during her 210 days at sea, she learned a lot about self-motivation and the importance of believing in one’s self. Jessica’s story is one that I will always remember while sailing on my family’s sailboat. Knowing how much work it is to sail our boat (which is the same size as Jessica’s) with four people crewing, I hold a high amount of respect for Jessica and her knowledge of sailing—especially with her being so young while taking on such an enormous adventure.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who yearns for adventure, especially those who may believe they are too young to live their dreams; Jessica’s motivation and strength will quickly change your mind.
October 12, 2010
I was enthralled with 16-year-old Australian Jessica Watson's sail around the world and followed her progress on her blog as she went. I was happy to see she was writing a book about her adventure but unsure about how quickly she wrote it once home--it didn't leave much time for reflection, which seems essential for a journey of this magnitude.
I enjoyed reading how she came to sail and what sort of family she grew up in. Once she hits the water, it's mostly her blog posts but she does add additional insight to some, which was interesting. Some things she kept from readers, some from her family and entire team, as she didn't want to worry people. Mostly it had to do with her general mental health--crucial when you're sailing alone for so long and at such a young age. Reading her blog posts again but in quick succession really made me feel like I was right there in Ella's Pink Lady. Jessica's voice comes through loud and clear in the book as it did in the blog--and for detractors, that same voice is in her video diaries as well.
I was anxious to read about her homecoming and how she felt about the overwhelming response--not just from Australians but from the world. Unfortunately, that was the part that felt skimmed over. I think she basically got home, had a few days to rest, then had to get to work on the book. I'm sure if she wrote those homecoming pages today, still only five months later, it'd be a much different story. She does, however, talk briefly about having completed her goal that she'd worked so long and so hard for, and wondered, "What now?"
Still, I was so impressed by this young girl's determination to go after her dream and not let anyone stop her. She learned that you can do anything you put your mind to--no matter your age, background or gender. She also talks a lot about patience, which I found refreshing and an important quality to have. After all, she was constantly at the mercy of the weather so patience was essential!
I'm not a sailor but I still enjoyed this book and think Jessica Watson is amazing. I just would have liked a bit more insight at the end.
I enjoyed reading how she came to sail and what sort of family she grew up in. Once she hits the water, it's mostly her blog posts but she does add additional insight to some, which was interesting. Some things she kept from readers, some from her family and entire team, as she didn't want to worry people. Mostly it had to do with her general mental health--crucial when you're sailing alone for so long and at such a young age. Reading her blog posts again but in quick succession really made me feel like I was right there in Ella's Pink Lady. Jessica's voice comes through loud and clear in the book as it did in the blog--and for detractors, that same voice is in her video diaries as well.
I was anxious to read about her homecoming and how she felt about the overwhelming response--not just from Australians but from the world. Unfortunately, that was the part that felt skimmed over. I think she basically got home, had a few days to rest, then had to get to work on the book. I'm sure if she wrote those homecoming pages today, still only five months later, it'd be a much different story. She does, however, talk briefly about having completed her goal that she'd worked so long and so hard for, and wondered, "What now?"
Still, I was so impressed by this young girl's determination to go after her dream and not let anyone stop her. She learned that you can do anything you put your mind to--no matter your age, background or gender. She also talks a lot about patience, which I found refreshing and an important quality to have. After all, she was constantly at the mercy of the weather so patience was essential!
I'm not a sailor but I still enjoyed this book and think Jessica Watson is amazing. I just would have liked a bit more insight at the end.
March 15, 2023
The day the movie “true spirit” I watched it. And the day after. And the day after that. And then about 15 more times after that. I had no idea who Jessica Watson was before the movie was recommended to me on Netflix but after watching the movie I needed to read the book too and I can confidently say this was incredibly beautiful and powerful too! She really is such an inspiration!
40 foot waves, 50 mile an hour winds, broken dunny and getting knocked down several times - she went through it! What a brave and inspiring girl, only 16 years old and she sailed around the world herself - alone and unassisted! Like I said I loved the movie but the book was amazing too and different but I love that because we got to see HER side of the story through HER words. Through everything she was always so positive and through a lot of the situations she wrote about it really felt like I was out there out in the ocean. Although I may not love sailing myself I do love the ocean and I understand a lot of what she’s talking about when writing about her love for the ocean/water.
40 foot waves, 50 mile an hour winds, broken dunny and getting knocked down several times - she went through it! What a brave and inspiring girl, only 16 years old and she sailed around the world herself - alone and unassisted! Like I said I loved the movie but the book was amazing too and different but I love that because we got to see HER side of the story through HER words. Through everything she was always so positive and through a lot of the situations she wrote about it really felt like I was out there out in the ocean. Although I may not love sailing myself I do love the ocean and I understand a lot of what she’s talking about when writing about her love for the ocean/water.
February 4, 2012
Great story of a 16 year-old girl who took on the high seas in a 34 foot sailboat. She started out as a little girl afraid of everything and gradually changed as she learned to sail (among other things). She began pestering her parents when she was 12 and by the time she was 14, they not only had given her permission to follow her dream but were actively working to make it a reality.
Sailing solo, non-stop around the world is easier these days with all the various electronic equipment available but it is certainly no picnic. She outlasted storms, doldrums, knockdowns, loneliness, tears, torn sails, damaged equipment and more to make her dream come true. One of the things she had to overcome was negative publicity about a 16 year-old setting off on such an adventure. Her parents took a lot of heat on this, but they went ahead.
Knockdowns - that is when the wind/waves knock the ship over to where the mast actually touches the water. She weathered several of these, some in just the last few days of sailing. The most dramatic one was when the boat was knocked totally upside-down - the mast pointing straight down rather than up. I can't imagine going through something like that and living to tell about it.
This is an inspiring story (in her own words) of focus and determination. You will enjoy the book - won't be able to wait to see what happens next.
Sailing solo, non-stop around the world is easier these days with all the various electronic equipment available but it is certainly no picnic. She outlasted storms, doldrums, knockdowns, loneliness, tears, torn sails, damaged equipment and more to make her dream come true. One of the things she had to overcome was negative publicity about a 16 year-old setting off on such an adventure. Her parents took a lot of heat on this, but they went ahead.
Knockdowns - that is when the wind/waves knock the ship over to where the mast actually touches the water. She weathered several of these, some in just the last few days of sailing. The most dramatic one was when the boat was knocked totally upside-down - the mast pointing straight down rather than up. I can't imagine going through something like that and living to tell about it.
This is an inspiring story (in her own words) of focus and determination. You will enjoy the book - won't be able to wait to see what happens next.
September 1, 2021
Once afraid of everything, Jessica Watson became the youngest person to sail solo, nonstop, and unassisted around the world. Jessica lived on a boat with her family as a kid, so she began to love sailing. Countless days on the water and reading about other sailors journeys made her think about if she could sail around the world on her own too. She wanted to do this for the challenge and to prove that dreams can come true. After much preparation, she left on October 18, 2009 and returned on May 15, 2010. She began in Sydney, Australia, went up to the equator, rounded Cape Horn, rounded the Cape of Good Hope, returned to Australian waters, and made it safely back to Sydney. She made this big dream of hers come true by persevering through the troubles, knockdowns, and challenges. In addition to this, she had a large amount of support from family, friends, and fans.
August 6, 2023
Lots of technical detail about sailing, but fun to read about this inspiring young woman who knew already as an adolescent that she wanted to sail around the world. And she did it! Pretty interesting to think about living in such a small space for that long so far away from people and being fully dependent on mostly yourself.
February 8, 2023
Brought back memories and uplifting to read (and watched the movie). Needed in these times #hope
July 24, 2013
I chose to read 'True Spirit' an autobiography written by Jessica Watson about her journey circumnavigating the world single handed at the age of 16 because my Grandparents decided to get me a copy of her novel for my Birthday. I really enjoyed reading about her journey because i to love to sail. This inspiring novel falls into the category of a dairy, autobiography or biography. Jessica Watson wrote her autobiography as she was sailing around the world and published it a year after she returned.
Jessica Watson's journey was interesting to read about because of her determination to complete her dreams. She set this goal when she was turning 13 and kept persevering and convincing her family and fiends she was capable. During her preparation their was a lot lot media reporting on her. Majority of the media were saying the Jessica's parents were mad for letting her attempt such a life threatening journey at the age of 16. 210 days after departing from Sydney Jessica returned in her trusty boat the pink lady proving the media wrong and making her family proud. Jessica showed true courage and perseverance. This is why she is one of my role models.
My favorite quote that Jessica wrote in one of her diary entries was "You are only as big as the dreams you dare to live.” This is a really good quote that inspires me to set goals because she has proven to me that if you work hard enough they can come true. This quote was one of her many words of wisdom but for me i can relate to this one most.
The part I liked most about the novel was that she was always so positive. Throughout the book Jessica faced life threatening events but with her positive nature and incredible sailing ability she managed to push through it. As she sailed she also updated a blog which she recorded all her events. When i read some of them it felt like i was out their with her!She was a very good, detailed writer.
This autobiography was really inspiring because I enjoy sailing at my batch. Jessica's story is a great example of dreams coming true.
Jessica Watson's journey was interesting to read about because of her determination to complete her dreams. She set this goal when she was turning 13 and kept persevering and convincing her family and fiends she was capable. During her preparation their was a lot lot media reporting on her. Majority of the media were saying the Jessica's parents were mad for letting her attempt such a life threatening journey at the age of 16. 210 days after departing from Sydney Jessica returned in her trusty boat the pink lady proving the media wrong and making her family proud. Jessica showed true courage and perseverance. This is why she is one of my role models.
My favorite quote that Jessica wrote in one of her diary entries was "You are only as big as the dreams you dare to live.” This is a really good quote that inspires me to set goals because she has proven to me that if you work hard enough they can come true. This quote was one of her many words of wisdom but for me i can relate to this one most.
The part I liked most about the novel was that she was always so positive. Throughout the book Jessica faced life threatening events but with her positive nature and incredible sailing ability she managed to push through it. As she sailed she also updated a blog which she recorded all her events. When i read some of them it felt like i was out their with her!She was a very good, detailed writer.
This autobiography was really inspiring because I enjoy sailing at my batch. Jessica's story is a great example of dreams coming true.
Read
September 1, 2021In True Spirit Jessica Watson is an Australian teenager that sailed across the world without assistance from anyone. Jessica Watson started her journey on May 10th, 2010, many of her acquaintances doubted her very much in the beginning because when she was little she had the biggest fear of water and the ocean. Jessica Watson did all of this because people doubted her, when Jessica was young many people judged her because of her appearance and because she was a girl and so in order to talk back to all of those people she did the unthinkable. Jessica Watson sailed all across the globe, she faced many hardships such as waves as ig as 12 metres. Her mast fell many times in the water which cost her a lot of struggle and time to bring it back up, but after all of that she finally succeed. She became a source of inspiration to everyone who others doubted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2021
In the book True Spirit by Jessica Watson, she reflects on her journey traveling around the world. She adventures by herself on the ocean in her 34 foot boat, Ella's Pink Lady. It took 210 days for the 16 year-old to circumnavigate non-stop. She started out on October 18, 2009 and came back on May 15, 2010. Though she faced many challenges mentally while alone, she persevered and made it to the finish. Once she arrived back at the start, the young Australian was the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the world.
September 1, 2021
True spirit is a book about a 16 year old girl, Jessica Watson, who sailed solo, nonstop, and unassisted around the world. She started in Australia, in 2010. She faced a lot of challenges along the way, and a lot of people thought she wouldn't be able to do it. But she persevered through all the ups and downs until she completed the journey, making her the youngest person to sail solo, nonstop, and unassisted around the world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2023
This book is not written by the best author of all time.
It's not perfect, it's not flowery, descriptive writing that drives you on an emotional rollercoaster.
But that's not what I rate a book on.
I rate a book on its story, and what it makes me feel.
This book?
Made me feel like I could take on the world.
Jessica Watson is a very good, positive influence on girls around the world my age. Scratch that- people EVERYWHERE of ANY AGE.
No one is too old or too young or too ANYTHING to follow their dreams!!
This book was smooth. It flowed smoothly from section to section, never once making me feel lost or rushed.
Jessica Watson had a perfect way of describing her adventure that made me feel like part of it. I was invested in her journey.
I wasn't there with her, in fact I was barely born when she took on the ocean.
But through this book I can feel her can-do attitude, hopes, aspirations, and strength to achieve her dreams, even when others say she can't, because she's too young or not strong enough.
But she won't listen to those negative talkers, because that's all they'll ever be. If they have a valid opinion, sure she'll listen. But if they're critiquing for the sake of critiquing, she brushed them off and keeps herself on the right track.
There is so much to do in life!!
After reading this book, I've decided what I want to be when I grow up.
I want to be a doctor-pilot-astronaut-musician-actor-missionary-marine biologist-sailor!
And you know what Jessica Watson would say about that?
You go, girl. Go achieve your dreams.
I'll never forget the last line of this book, and I think it's something everyone needs to hear:
" You don't need a shooting star, you can do it yourself."
-Jessica Watson, the youngest person to circumnavigate the world solo, nonstop, and unassisted.
It's not perfect, it's not flowery, descriptive writing that drives you on an emotional rollercoaster.
But that's not what I rate a book on.
I rate a book on its story, and what it makes me feel.
This book?
Made me feel like I could take on the world.
Jessica Watson is a very good, positive influence on girls around the world my age. Scratch that- people EVERYWHERE of ANY AGE.
No one is too old or too young or too ANYTHING to follow their dreams!!
This book was smooth. It flowed smoothly from section to section, never once making me feel lost or rushed.
Jessica Watson had a perfect way of describing her adventure that made me feel like part of it. I was invested in her journey.
I wasn't there with her, in fact I was barely born when she took on the ocean.
But through this book I can feel her can-do attitude, hopes, aspirations, and strength to achieve her dreams, even when others say she can't, because she's too young or not strong enough.
But she won't listen to those negative talkers, because that's all they'll ever be. If they have a valid opinion, sure she'll listen. But if they're critiquing for the sake of critiquing, she brushed them off and keeps herself on the right track.
There is so much to do in life!!
After reading this book, I've decided what I want to be when I grow up.
I want to be a doctor-pilot-astronaut-musician-actor-missionary-marine biologist-sailor!
And you know what Jessica Watson would say about that?
You go, girl. Go achieve your dreams.
I'll never forget the last line of this book, and I think it's something everyone needs to hear:
" You don't need a shooting star, you can do it yourself."
-Jessica Watson, the youngest person to circumnavigate the world solo, nonstop, and unassisted.
September 3, 2024
4.5
I hate that so many dreams never actually become anything more than that, a dream. I'm not saying that everyone should buy a boat and take off around the world, but I hope that by achieveing my own dream, I'm showing people that it is possible to reach their own goals, whatever they might be and however big or small.
Jessica Watson sailed off around the world when I was in Year 2. When I was in Year 2, we had show and tell in the mornings (we called it 'News') and after being prompted by my Nana, I talked about her. I probably said something along the lines of 'Jessica Watson is 16 and is sailing around the world on a pink boat.' I was given an award because I talked about her. And then I haven't really ever thought about her since.
My friend lent me this book and I'm so glad she did because I don't even really know what it did to me. It is a pretty in depth retelling of Jessica's journey from the days before and when she leaves Sydney to the aftermath of returning. All of it was engaging and honest. There is something about her story that moves me so much. Like, she was literally just a girl and did all this by herself, for some reason it makes me so emotional. When I was eight years old, I would have thought sixteen was the height of maturity but it really isn't. BUT Jessica proved that young girls have the ambition and the courage to attempt and successfully pull off a mission like this. When I started reading I felt like those sceptical people who were kind of weirded out by her parents allowing her to do something like this. But I kind of got past that and recognised her drive and intelligence. It's just unbelievable, what an amazing person. I really enjoyed reading all about it.
I hate that so many dreams never actually become anything more than that, a dream. I'm not saying that everyone should buy a boat and take off around the world, but I hope that by achieveing my own dream, I'm showing people that it is possible to reach their own goals, whatever they might be and however big or small.
Jessica Watson sailed off around the world when I was in Year 2. When I was in Year 2, we had show and tell in the mornings (we called it 'News') and after being prompted by my Nana, I talked about her. I probably said something along the lines of 'Jessica Watson is 16 and is sailing around the world on a pink boat.' I was given an award because I talked about her. And then I haven't really ever thought about her since.
My friend lent me this book and I'm so glad she did because I don't even really know what it did to me. It is a pretty in depth retelling of Jessica's journey from the days before and when she leaves Sydney to the aftermath of returning. All of it was engaging and honest. There is something about her story that moves me so much. Like, she was literally just a girl and did all this by herself, for some reason it makes me so emotional. When I was eight years old, I would have thought sixteen was the height of maturity but it really isn't. BUT Jessica proved that young girls have the ambition and the courage to attempt and successfully pull off a mission like this. When I started reading I felt like those sceptical people who were kind of weirded out by her parents allowing her to do something like this. But I kind of got past that and recognised her drive and intelligence. It's just unbelievable, what an amazing person. I really enjoyed reading all about it.
December 29, 2023
I'm giving this 5 stars for the incrediplble accomplishment of this young woman. Deeply moving and inspirational.
First off, if you can watch the movie first. It's a bit dramatized but gives a lasting impression.
The actual book appears to be more of a captains log, journal, or blog with additions. It just didn't give the full feeling. If I'd read the book before the move I might not have been as moved and inspired. But reading the book after gave me all the details I could want to expand on the movie.
Maybe I'll truly become a sailboat sailor later in life. I can't believe it's a seven month journey to circumnavigate the globe. I'll have to add at least a year if time for stops along the way if I ever attempt it. I can't imagine sailing past some foreign wild land and not being able to stop and explore.
This is the sort of story I would have loved as a child and love just as much as an adult. Truly inspiring.
First off, if you can watch the movie first. It's a bit dramatized but gives a lasting impression.
The actual book appears to be more of a captains log, journal, or blog with additions. It just didn't give the full feeling. If I'd read the book before the move I might not have been as moved and inspired. But reading the book after gave me all the details I could want to expand on the movie.
Maybe I'll truly become a sailboat sailor later in life. I can't believe it's a seven month journey to circumnavigate the globe. I'll have to add at least a year if time for stops along the way if I ever attempt it. I can't imagine sailing past some foreign wild land and not being able to stop and explore.
This is the sort of story I would have loved as a child and love just as much as an adult. Truly inspiring.
May 13, 2023
4 stars for the amazing spirit, positivity, and go-getter attitude of Jessica Watson. It was amazing to see how she championed going for your goals come what may. I loved that she cheered everyone on who were going for their dreams and records and didn’t seem to feel jealous or worried about them. Loved her attitude and honesty.
3 stars for the writing. It read much more like a blog (but knowing that many chapters came straight from her blog that would make sense.)
3 stars for the writing. It read much more like a blog (but knowing that many chapters came straight from her blog that would make sense.)
December 8, 2024
This book reminded me a lot of all the Appalachian Trail books that I have read, and I have the same criticism of this one: they follow a very standard formula of “I set out to do something big, it was really hard, it showed me some beautiful things, I thought about giving up, but then I didn’t, I pushed through and triumphed.” The only difference is that this one is the story of a young girl sailing alone around the world instead of someone completing 2200 miles of hiking. The book read like a blog that had been put into book form, which I think it basically was. While it was an interesting story, and it is great to read about people following their dreams, There was a little too much of “I did this then I did this then I did this then I did this” for me to really enjoy it.
May 19, 2025
Great story and inspiring girl! Just a little long. But still a great story.
January 13, 2011
What an awesome story! You may remember last year when there was a bit of controversy over a young (16years old) Australian girl wanting to sail solo, round-the-World. Well, True Spirit is her story. Watson and her family lived on a boat for several years and this was when she developed her love of sailing. She loved to read about sailors and their solo journeys around the World. At around age 14, she decided that she would like to become the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the World. This was her dream and for the next two years, her main focus. She spent all her spare time reading books, talking to the sailors, crewing for local yachties, and generally mentally preparing herself. Single-minded, determined and ultra focussed, Watson won many supporters who not only helped her to organise sponsorship but also to prepare and equip her yacht.
Watson’s parents certainly copped some flak, both in the media and from strangers on the street, but they had brought all their children up to be responsible and independent - and I don’t think that they could have stopped her from her round-the-World attempt even if they tried!
True Spirit is an awe-inspiring, exhilarating read for boaties and non boaties of all ages. It includes excerpts from her blog, a chart of her circumnavigation, a glossary of sailing terms, lots of photographs as well as a detailed list of the equipment and supplies required for a round-the-World trip.
Watson’s parents certainly copped some flak, both in the media and from strangers on the street, but they had brought all their children up to be responsible and independent - and I don’t think that they could have stopped her from her round-the-World attempt even if they tried!
True Spirit is an awe-inspiring, exhilarating read for boaties and non boaties of all ages. It includes excerpts from her blog, a chart of her circumnavigation, a glossary of sailing terms, lots of photographs as well as a detailed list of the equipment and supplies required for a round-the-World trip.
August 1, 2011
I followed Jessica's journey while it was happening through her blog, and was inspired with every post. So it's no surprise I bought her book as soon as I heard it was out. Seriously, folks, AMAZING. The book was written by Jessica herself, pulling from her blog posts, and I loved that the story came out in Jessica's own voice.
The book is so full of hope, enthusiasm, and encouragement, I feel like it's practically a self-help book on achieving your dreams. Only so much better, because you get an incredible story into the bargain. It's well written, engaging, and TRUE. I was tugged along for an emotional, exciting ride with Jessica and felt lucky I got to share even a little bit in something I'd never be able to do: sail solo around the world.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, enlightening, and enthusiastic read.
The book is so full of hope, enthusiasm, and encouragement, I feel like it's practically a self-help book on achieving your dreams. Only so much better, because you get an incredible story into the bargain. It's well written, engaging, and TRUE. I was tugged along for an emotional, exciting ride with Jessica and felt lucky I got to share even a little bit in something I'd never be able to do: sail solo around the world.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, enlightening, and enthusiastic read.
May 30, 2011
This was another Borders bargain find for $3.99 that may have changed my life. I might be exaggerating, but I can't help but notice that two of the books that I have read off of the clearance rack have some similarities. This (as well as the "Two Chickens for a Saddle" book) are about young girl(s) with unmeasurable amounts of guts, courage, and self confidence. Both books are written by girls with parents that use the unschooling method and travel while letting their children learn through every day adventures. It really makes me pause and think about whether or not I am doing "enough" as a parent. I don't think that I could handle the seven months alone at sea that this girl does. Maybe I am selling myself short. I probably could do it, but enjoy it?! Thrive on it?! And could my kids when they are 16?
June 5, 2023
It's a great story no denying it. However, it is like reading the most PG repetitive journal. Which is fine! Very simply written, corny sometimes. Also just a long list of sponser thanking and acknowledging all the help. Which is awesome, no denying it. But it was a tad boring sometimes.. im sorry! She also was like, so frustratingly upbeat. Like the self flagellation at having a bad mood. Very much bottle it up and be happy no matter what. It's a positive book but almost forced? Like in today's terms we would call that toxic positivity. She never allows herself to feel sad. I think its incredible what she's done, the book is very realistic of her life and that's it. There's no real deep reflection or beautiful prose.
February 1, 2017
It was a joy to finally read Jessica Watson's book, after first discovering her through the tv documentary about her circumnavigation a couple of years ago. She still comes across as both an ordinary and extraordinary young woman. It probably helps to have an interest in sailing, but an interest in people is just as good a starting point if you want to read this boon.
January 21, 2015
Enjoyed this book very much. Admired her courage and determination in going for and achieving her dream...
February 4, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. As someone who has done a bit of sailing, I thought this was really interesting. Jessica is an amazing and inspiring young woman.
February 6, 2023
True Spirit by Jessica Watson is the memoir of the Aussie girl who took on the world. At the age of 16, from October 2009 to May 2010, sailing her 34-foot yacht, Ella’s Pink Lady, Jessica circumnavigated the globe. This made her the youngest person to sail non-stop, solo, and unassisted around the world. The journey took her 240 days and she sailed 23,000 nautical miles.
Written in three sections, the first part covers Jessica’s family life, her relationship with her siblings and parents and how she came to sail. I found it interesting that the family grew up travelling in their family boat and for most part the children were home schooled which allowed plenty of time to learn practical outside classroom skills.
The book then moved into the explaining all the gruelling boat preparations, fundraising and voyage planning before moving into the actual voyage. Whilst sailing, Jessica communicated with the outside world with a series of blog posts. Through these blog posts readers get a taste of Jessica experiences on the ocean and through her descriptive and exciting entries Jessica describes amazing and sometimes terrifying things and encounters. I was amazed at her practical thinking with fixing all problems that arouse and her mental toughness.
The last part of the book is Jessica’s homecoming and readapting back into normal life. This part of the book is not as exciting as the rest as it describes her receiving accolades and travelling around to speak and launch her book but as this is a very short section it does not hinder from the great story of adventure that you have just read.
I loved this memoir of adventure and I wanted to read it before watching the Netflix movie adaption that is now available for viewing. Whilst reading this memoir I was very sad to hear that Jessica has suffered personal trauma in her life recently when her long-term partner suffered a catastrophic stoke at the age of 29, and passed away 6 weeks later. My heart goes out to this incredibly strong young woman.
This is an incredible story and I highly recommend it. Jessica had a dream and she set out and achieved it with the support and love from family and friends. She is an inspiration to all the young and strong girls out there.
Written in three sections, the first part covers Jessica’s family life, her relationship with her siblings and parents and how she came to sail. I found it interesting that the family grew up travelling in their family boat and for most part the children were home schooled which allowed plenty of time to learn practical outside classroom skills.
The book then moved into the explaining all the gruelling boat preparations, fundraising and voyage planning before moving into the actual voyage. Whilst sailing, Jessica communicated with the outside world with a series of blog posts. Through these blog posts readers get a taste of Jessica experiences on the ocean and through her descriptive and exciting entries Jessica describes amazing and sometimes terrifying things and encounters. I was amazed at her practical thinking with fixing all problems that arouse and her mental toughness.
The last part of the book is Jessica’s homecoming and readapting back into normal life. This part of the book is not as exciting as the rest as it describes her receiving accolades and travelling around to speak and launch her book but as this is a very short section it does not hinder from the great story of adventure that you have just read.
I loved this memoir of adventure and I wanted to read it before watching the Netflix movie adaption that is now available for viewing. Whilst reading this memoir I was very sad to hear that Jessica has suffered personal trauma in her life recently when her long-term partner suffered a catastrophic stoke at the age of 29, and passed away 6 weeks later. My heart goes out to this incredibly strong young woman.
This is an incredible story and I highly recommend it. Jessica had a dream and she set out and achieved it with the support and love from family and friends. She is an inspiration to all the young and strong girls out there.
February 18, 2023
It started with the trailer for the Netflix movie. I’m not normally drawn to “based on a true story” books or movies but that trailer immediately hooked me so when it finally released I watched the movie and needed to know more about Jessica Watson and her story! What an incredibly inspiring individual. I’m blown away by what she accomplished at only 16 and I enjoyed reading about every moment of her journey. Her dedication, passion, and grit at such a young age really goes to show that anyone can do anything if they dream big enough and want it bad enough. Which is the very message she wanted to convey throughout the course of her book. I feel so inspired to continue chasing my own dreams. To continue to dream big! If Jessica Watson, at the age of 16, can circumnavigate the entire world entirely alone, experiencing multiple near-death experiences, then I can write and publish those books. I can become my own boss and work for myself. I can improve my drawing and other creative abilities. If Jessica can do something as challenging as sail around the world, then I can accomplish my own dreams that just don’t seem as daunting in comparison. Not that my dreams aren’t just as important, they just seem so much more doable now!
I also learned so much about sailing through this book! (I knew absolutely nothing about the subject) and that I found intriguing as well.
The ending had me in tears because I felt like a part of me got to experience this journey with Jessica all these 13 years later. She accomplished such an amazing feat and thousands of people were cheering her on along the entire way. And her message that dreams are things we can make happen with our own work and dedication is immensely inspiring. I feel refreshed to tackle anything I set my mind to after reading this book. So thank you Jessica for being such an inspiration.
I love that Jessica also includes the links to all of her video diaries to go along with each section of her book. That really brought the whole story to life for me. And I’m also fascinated by all the other solo sailors and kayakers she mentioned in her book and definitely plan on reading some of their books as well! Before this book I wasn’t a “based on a true story” type of reader but now I think that has changed.
I also learned so much about sailing through this book! (I knew absolutely nothing about the subject) and that I found intriguing as well.
The ending had me in tears because I felt like a part of me got to experience this journey with Jessica all these 13 years later. She accomplished such an amazing feat and thousands of people were cheering her on along the entire way. And her message that dreams are things we can make happen with our own work and dedication is immensely inspiring. I feel refreshed to tackle anything I set my mind to after reading this book. So thank you Jessica for being such an inspiration.
I love that Jessica also includes the links to all of her video diaries to go along with each section of her book. That really brought the whole story to life for me. And I’m also fascinated by all the other solo sailors and kayakers she mentioned in her book and definitely plan on reading some of their books as well! Before this book I wasn’t a “based on a true story” type of reader but now I think that has changed.
January 27, 2024
This is a book about an absolutely remarkable achievement. That in and of itself makes it worth reading. My daughters and I watched the Netflix movie based on this book, and enjoyed it. However I wanted more texture on the voyage: preparation, day-to-day logistics, dangers, psychology, etc. And I got that, to a certain extent.
Jess decided to write the book in large part by copying and pasting her blog from the voyage, but adding to it with new text. The rationale is that the blog captured a lot of what happened and what she was thinking in the moment, while also being brief and a bit self-censored. She wanted to add more detail and insight than time and energy (she was, after all, sailing solo around the freaking world at the time!) as well as optics would allow. There was alot of criticism about what she was doing and she didn’t want to fuel that fire with too much transparency about dangers and despair.
The hybrid model mostly works. I think the book leans on the blog a bit too much as a space filler. I could have done with fewer entries that were more carefully selected to illustrate key points, typical days or situations, etc. That said, I can also see the value in archiving that more or less complete record in one place.
I also was looking for a little more from the new narrative. In several instances, she stopped short on detail, such as about the storms and knockdowns, or the natural history of the voyage. That might have been due to the time or energy available to complete the book, or because she was still holding back a little to give the story more gloss. Dunno.
But that’s all what I was looking for, and it’s not my book or story or achievement. So I ultimately defer to the choices Jess made and urge you to give it a read. It’s an easy read too…just be ready for no shortage of exclamation points!
Jess decided to write the book in large part by copying and pasting her blog from the voyage, but adding to it with new text. The rationale is that the blog captured a lot of what happened and what she was thinking in the moment, while also being brief and a bit self-censored. She wanted to add more detail and insight than time and energy (she was, after all, sailing solo around the freaking world at the time!) as well as optics would allow. There was alot of criticism about what she was doing and she didn’t want to fuel that fire with too much transparency about dangers and despair.
The hybrid model mostly works. I think the book leans on the blog a bit too much as a space filler. I could have done with fewer entries that were more carefully selected to illustrate key points, typical days or situations, etc. That said, I can also see the value in archiving that more or less complete record in one place.
I also was looking for a little more from the new narrative. In several instances, she stopped short on detail, such as about the storms and knockdowns, or the natural history of the voyage. That might have been due to the time or energy available to complete the book, or because she was still holding back a little to give the story more gloss. Dunno.
But that’s all what I was looking for, and it’s not my book or story or achievement. So I ultimately defer to the choices Jess made and urge you to give it a read. It’s an easy read too…just be ready for no shortage of exclamation points!
March 14, 2020
"...I don't need a wish. I've got the ability to dream; that's all anyone needs to make their wishes and dreams come true. You don't need a shooting star, you can do it yourself."
Jessica Watson sailed solo around the world in her 16th year. I must confess to having vaguely seen something of her on television but seriously those 6 months that she was sailing, I was more of a zombie than human, thanks to my little human being born just 10 days before Watson launched.
Reading about it all a decade later, however, did not change the fact that even at a young age, Jessica Watson had dreams. And she dreamt BIG. It is also clear that from her perspective, she worked hard to reach her dreams. She has first proven to her parents that she's serious and once she's got their support, she also received many others. Both morally & financially.
I found the first part of the book a bit more interesting with all the gruelling preparations. The second part of the book was basically her blog posts written as she sailed around the world. I found that a bit boring; it was probably more exciting if you read it as she was sailing. And I got impatient reading the last part as she received accolades and travelling around to speak & launched her book. Not to belittle her achievement at all because it was an amazing adventure but I guess I'm just not a sports person and am really not that interested in sailing. Still, I admire her gumption. Good on you, Jessica!
Jessica Watson sailed solo around the world in her 16th year. I must confess to having vaguely seen something of her on television but seriously those 6 months that she was sailing, I was more of a zombie than human, thanks to my little human being born just 10 days before Watson launched.
Reading about it all a decade later, however, did not change the fact that even at a young age, Jessica Watson had dreams. And she dreamt BIG. It is also clear that from her perspective, she worked hard to reach her dreams. She has first proven to her parents that she's serious and once she's got their support, she also received many others. Both morally & financially.
I found the first part of the book a bit more interesting with all the gruelling preparations. The second part of the book was basically her blog posts written as she sailed around the world. I found that a bit boring; it was probably more exciting if you read it as she was sailing. And I got impatient reading the last part as she received accolades and travelling around to speak & launched her book. Not to belittle her achievement at all because it was an amazing adventure but I guess I'm just not a sports person and am really not that interested in sailing. Still, I admire her gumption. Good on you, Jessica!
April 22, 2023
This is my first audio book. Usually I don't really enjoy audio books as I get distracted easily and it is just not the same without a book in hank to turn its pages and highlight the sentences I enjoy. But True Spirits makes a perfect audio book as it is based on Jessica's blog and each day's blog sounds like a short podcast. Her humor from time to time puts a grin on my face. Some of them are full of wits. For example, after her birthday spent on the voyage, she mentioned that she got asked by people how it felt like. She wrote," nothing,. Just the same old me".
I know it for a fact that lots of people are inspired and encouraged by Jessica's spirits - determination and courage to realize their dreams. It is beyond doubt and it is also Jessica's initiative to write her blogs and publish the book.
But for me, instead of being inspirated to pursue my dreams, I am more touched by her gratitude. To be able to sail alone around the world at such a young age is a big thing which could easily boost any adult's ego, let alone a teenage. But no, throughout her book and journey, she has consistently expressing her gratitude and appreciation for the help and support she received. - from her family and team to people who commented on her blogs. I found this generous and consistent gratitude very inspiring.
I know it for a fact that lots of people are inspired and encouraged by Jessica's spirits - determination and courage to realize their dreams. It is beyond doubt and it is also Jessica's initiative to write her blogs and publish the book.
But for me, instead of being inspirated to pursue my dreams, I am more touched by her gratitude. To be able to sail alone around the world at such a young age is a big thing which could easily boost any adult's ego, let alone a teenage. But no, throughout her book and journey, she has consistently expressing her gratitude and appreciation for the help and support she received. - from her family and team to people who commented on her blogs. I found this generous and consistent gratitude very inspiring.
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