Reviews
Book Two: Sailing the South Pacific Reviews
Editorial Reviews
Editorial Review, Sailing the South Pacific
“The book is once again vividly illustrated with full-page, color photographs, and crammed with diverting historical asides; for instance, there’s a brief account of the Tahitian origin of the word “tattoo.”
This time, the trip is haunted by the dark specter of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Still reeling from their expulsion from the biotech company they founded and frustrated by its subsequent floundering, the Hofmanns were in search of an opportunity for self-reflection and renewal.
“The author memorably describes their brushes with danger…they also portray the quotidian quirks of long-distance travel…”
“Also, this installment includes lessons that Gunter learned about sailing that could prove useful to readers who might be planning a boat trip of their own.”
“A handsome memoir that should interest would-be sailors, as well as the author’s loved ones.”
“…an informative travelogue overall, and a gorgeous coffee table book.”
─Kirkus Reviews
Customer Reviews
Reader Review
BEAUTIFUL BOOK, BEAUTIFUL WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER
By C & M on French Curve on May 29,2013
Sailing the South Pacific by Lois Joy Hofman is a MUST READ!
The first time I heard Lois speak I was impressed about her sailing knowledge. We were at the Women’s Sailing Convention in So. Ca. in The Pirate class. The teacher of this class was telling us how to check the Hot Spots for Piracy. From the back of the room, this petite pretty blonde spoke up about her travels on the high seas, it was Lois. She was a fantastic speaker, that captured everyones attention, as she shared stories of her experiences.
Later that day I found out she had written the first of her three books about sailing the world Maiden Voyage. Eagerly I purchased this beautiful book, and read it with tears in my eyes. We had similar backgrounds and I hope the same continues, as we too hope to sail the world. Her stories are engaging, of the many places they visited and people they met. I pictured myself in her situations, how would I do as a sailor? The photography throughout the two books are bright, colorful and so beautiful. As an Artist I really appreciate the visuals!
When she announced her second book about the Sailing the South Pacific In Search of Adventure and Moments of Bliss was available, I was first in line to purchase it. This book is as facinating and full of adventure as her first book Maiden Voyage. We are eager for her third book to be out, about the last segment of their voyage. I highly recommend her books and writing style to everyone, whether you plan to follow in their footsteps or stay on land. You’ll experience the adventure of traveling the world through Gunther & Lois’s eyes. What an accomplishment, a true story that will captivate your imagination!
By hometeacher on March 27, 2013
Format: Paperback
Sailing the South Pacific is something I would never do. But experiencing this adventure vicariously through someone who has a similar background is the next best thing. (Actually, to me it’s the BETTER thing!) As a teacher, I loved learning about all the fascinating customs and cultures in these faraway lands. I got to learn about the two different cultures of Fiji, what it’s like to shop at a “bloody market” in the Marquesas, the weird history of Easter Island, and how a chief is chosen and installed in Vanuatu (a place I admit I didn’t even know existed before this!). The gorgeous photographs that grace nearly every spread of this book help me imagine myself tagging along with Lois and Gunter as they boldly forge their way into unfamiliar territory. I didn’t have to get rain-soaked, fear for my survival, suffer heat stroke or food poisoning, or deal with foreign government red tape. Lois endured all that and more to capture these experiences–which I now get to enjoy in the comfort of my suburban Midwest home. Aah–this is the life! Thanks, Lois!
5.0 out of 5 stars
By T & A on March 24, 2013
Format: Paperback
Wow!!! Lois once again brought to life in us, a real feeling of “being there”. The writing was very descriptive and fun to read. The photos were beautiful and really made us feel like part of the experience. There was a great openness in the descriptions of their emotions as they viewed beauty, made new friends and overcame the hardships of sailing. My husband said he felt like voyeur, stowed away in Petite Bliss, looking over their shoulders. Our patience for this second book was grandly rewarded, but now must start all over again. We are very much looking forward to the release of the next!!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Michele Boerman
5.0 out of 5 stars It’s a fast read!
Reviewed in the United States on June 11, 2013
Verified Purchase
Josee writes so well that you don’t want to put the book down! Her ability to explain things that are hard to understand is a gift.
She explains what forgiveness is in such a way that she exposes the misconceptions that have been held about it for years! I would recommend this book to everyone, whether you are struggling with forgiveness issues or not. She also provides a lot of references in the back of the book for people struggling in other areas.
You will not be sorry if you purchase this book!!
—- Neil H.
4.0 out of 5 stars Part 2
Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2017
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Excellent like the first book. However, a little more frustration with their boat and the difficulties of the cruising life. Still, you get to armchair enjoy their travels through the south pacific, with more great stories and pictures.
C & M on French Curve
5.0 out of 5 stars BEAUTIFUL BOOK, BEAUTIFUL WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2013
Format: Paperback
The first time I heard Lois speak I was impressed about her sailing knowledge. We were at the Women’s Sailing Convention in So. Ca. in The Pirate class. The teacher of this class was telling us how to check the Hot Spots for Piracy. From the back of the room, this petite pretty blonde spoke up about her travels on the high seas, it was Lois. She was a fantastic speaker, that captured everyones attention, as she shared stories of her experiences.
Later that day I found out she had written the first of her three books about sailing the world “Maiden Voyage”. Eagerly I purchased this beautiful book, and read it with tears in my eyes. We had similar backgrounds and I hope the same continues, as we too hope to sail the world. Her stories are engaging, of the many places they visited and people they met. I pictured myself in her situations, how would I do as a sailor? The photography throughout the two books are bright, colorful and so beautiful. As an Artist I really appreciate the visuals!
When she announced her second book about the Sailing the South Pacific “In Search of Adventure and Moments of Bliss” was available, I was first in line to purchase it. This book is as facinating and full of adventure as her first book “Maiden Voyage”. We are eager for her third book to be out, about the last segment of their voyage. I highly recommend her books and writing style to everyone, whether you plan to follow in their footsteps or stay on land. You’ll experience the adventure of traveling the world through Gunther & Lois’s eyes. What an accomplishment, a true story that will captivate your imagination!
Thea Williams
5.0 out of 5 stars Two Thumbs Up for Hope
Reviewed in the United States on July 7, 2017
Josee writes with heartfelt simplicity. Her own struggle resonates with any who have been wounded in large or small ways. Her practical suggestions and the way she breaks down the process of forgiveness into small chunks make forgiving accessible to all. A must read for those fighting with bitterness or resentment of any kind.
hometeacher
5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating and Beautiful
Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2013
Format: Paperback
Sailing the South Pacific is something I would never do. But experiencing this adventure vicariously through someone who has a similar background is the next best thing. (Actually, to me it’s the BETTER thing!) As a teacher, I loved learning about all the fascinating customs and cultures in these faraway lands. I got to learn about the two different cultures of Fiji, what it’s like to shop at a “bloody market” in the Marquesas, the weird history of Easter Island, and how a chief is chosen and installed in Vanuatu (a place I admit I didn’t even know existed before this!). The gorgeous photographs that grace nearly every spread of this book help me imagine myself tagging along with Lois and Gunter as they boldly forge their way into unfamiliar territory. I didn’t have to get rain-soaked, fear for my survival, suffer heat stroke or food poisoning, or deal with foreign government red tape. Lois endured all that and more to capture these experiences–which I now get to enjoy in the comfort of my suburban Midwest home. Aah–this is the life! Thanks, Lois!
2 people found this helpful
Tina Shurtleff
5.0 out of 5 stars Not just another for the shelf….AN EXPERIENCE!
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2013
“Wow”…. “Amazing”…. “Tissue please”…. were just a couple of expressions I found my husband and I saying out loud as we sat together and excitedly made it through “The Soul’s Fight”! Josee D’Amore eloquently and profoundly hits the hearts core on forgiveness, as she describes her personal journey to that place where most of us are so reluctant to go. Ready yourself, not only for a capturing read, but for an actual EXPERIENCE! You will certainly find yourself wanting to know more! Thank you, D’Amore, for your tested and enduring commitment to “The Soul’s Fight”. Those of us who have read it are blessed…. Those who WILL read it are soon to join us in the relational understanding and celebration! Well done Sister, well done…
T & A
5.0 out of 5 stars A Voyeur at Sea…with the Hofmann’s
Reviewed in the United States on March 25, 2013
Format: Paperback
Wow!!! Lois once again brought to life in us, a real feeling of “being there”. The writing was very descriptive and fun to read. The photos were beautiful and really made us feel like part of the experience. There was a great openness in the descriptions of their emotions as they viewed beauty, made new friends and overcame the hardships of sailing. My husband said he felt like voyeur, stowed away in Petite Bliss, looking over their shoulders. Our patience for this second book was grandly rewarded, but now must start all over again. We are very much looking forward to the release of the next!!
One person found this helpful
M. Scott
5.0 out of 5 stars A Great Read for Armchair Travelers and Adventure Seekers
Reviewed in the United States on March 23, 2013
Format: Paperback
Whether you are a boating enthusiast and just “dream” of taking off across the ocean to the South Pacific, or you have done the adventure yourself — OR even if you have never set foot on a boat, this is a great book to read — part adventure, part history, part just living life… and combine these qualities with easy to read & understand flow to the book plus beautiful photography and the book is well worth the purchase and gets my highest recommendation. And if you have not bought her first book… it TOO is worth your time for another good read.
One person found this helpful
Bruce W
5.0 out of 5 stars The path to take to find healing from hurts through forgiveness.
Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2013
Josee uses her personal story to illustrate the path to healing that is available to each of us through forgiveness. Forgiving is a get out of jail card for yourself. It is not the same as saying it didn’t happen or removing the consequences of that other person’s actions. It is a process to get there. Josee walks you through that process. She knows what she’s talking about. She’s been there but I’d now walking in joy and peace.
A must read if you have been hurt and want it to go away.
2 people found this helpful
Suzy Straw
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful composition of photography, geography and true life tales of adventure!
Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2013
Format: Paperback
This is a great book! Part travel, party history and part adventure!. The format is great and simple to read. All you need is time to sit and read about something we all think of doing but most of us never get to experience.