The Catalogue of Shipwrecked Books: Christopher Columbus, His Son, and the Quest to Build the World's Greatest Library
Regular price
Compare to estimated retail price: RM90.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
The item you've got your eye on is secondhand. You probably already know that, but just in case!
The estimated retail price shown next to any listed item represents the first-hand prices we've seen elsewhere, or the estimated original retail price of a comparable item of the same quality, construction and material offered elsewhere in new condition.
Quest for knowledge amidst exploration and disaster.
If you're intrigued by the interplay of history, adventure, and the birth of modern knowledge, "The Catalogue of Shipwrecked Books" could be the treasure you're seeking. It's like unearthing a forgotten map leading to the intellectual fervor of the Renaissance. Edward Wilson-Lee takes you on Hernando Colón's epic journey, not only to remote lands but also through the labyrinthine corridors of a library that aimed to encompass human understanding. It's history, it's drama, and it's a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge.
- Hessell-Tiltman Prize (2019)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
The Catalogue of Shipwrecked Books: Christopher Columbus, His Son, and the Quest to Build the World's Greatest Library
Regular price
Compare to estimated retail price: RM90.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
The item you've got your eye on is secondhand. You probably already know that, but just in case!
The estimated retail price shown next to any listed item represents the first-hand prices we've seen elsewhere, or the estimated original retail price of a comparable item of the same quality, construction and material offered elsewhere in new condition.
ISBN: 9781982111403
Authors:
Edward Wilson-Lee
Publisher: Scribner
Date of Publication: 2020-03-10
Format: Paperback
Goodreads rating: 3.68
(rated by 1176 readers)
Description
This impeccably researched and “adventure-packed” (The Washington Post) account of the obsessive quest by Christopher Columbus’s son to create the greatest library in the world is “the stuff of Hollywood blockbusters” (NPR) and offers a vivid picture of Europe on the verge of becoming modern. At the peak of the Age of Exploration, Hernando Colón sailed with his father Christopher Columbus on his final voyage to the New World, a journey that ended in disaster, bloody mutiny, and shipwreck. After Columbus’s death in 1506, eighteen-year-old Hernando sought to continue—and surpass—his father’s campaign to explore the boundaries of the known world by building a library that would collect everything ever printed: a vast holding organized by summaries and catalogues; really, the first ever database for the exploding diversity of written matter as the printing press proliferated across Europe. Hernando traveled extensively and obsessively amassed his collection based on the groundbreaking conviction that a library of universal knowledge should include “all books, in all languages and on all subjects,” even material often dismissed: ballads, erotica, news pamphlets, almanacs, popular images, romances, fables. The loss of part of his collection to another maritime disaster in 1522 set off the final scramble to complete this sublime project, a race against time to realize
Condition guide
Book Condition Guide
Books in Like New Condition
This book may contain very minor cosmetic defects, but it is in pristine condition. There should be no yellowing, no foxing, no water damage, and no annotations of any kind on the cover and the pages. For paperbacks, there should not be any crease marks on the spine. This book is good as new — lucky you!
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Very Good Condition
This book has been used, but it is still in a clean condition. There should be no foxing or annotations of any kind on the inner pages, but a sparse amount may be present on the cover, title pages, or outside edges of the book. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be light crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Good Condition
We do our best to ensure the quality of our books, but there is no escaping the wear and tear that comes with time. Slight foxing and some annotations may be present on the pages and the cover. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be several crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Books in Well Read Condition
This is a well-read book, which means that the previous owner probably really enjoyed it! The cover and pages may include moderate foxing and annotations, but the text is not obscured and still readable. Moderate cosmetic defects and minor water damage may be present on the edges of the book. For paperbacks, there may be multiple crease marks on the spine.
*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.
Find out more about our process here.
Quantity selected exceeds current stock
Adding product to your cart
Quest for knowledge amidst exploration and disaster.
If you're intrigued by the interplay of history, adventure, and the birth of modern knowledge, "The Catalogue of Shipwrecked Books" could be the treasure you're seeking. It's like unearthing a forgotten map leading to the intellectual fervor of the Renaissance. Edward Wilson-Lee takes you on Hernando Colón's epic journey, not only to remote lands but also through the labyrinthine corridors of a library that aimed to encompass human understanding. It's history, it's drama, and it's a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge.
- Hessell-Tiltman Prize (2019)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
Similar Reads
Uncover books linked by topic and theme
Travel
New
Michael Palin
|
Penguin
Books
Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.18
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
53% off est. retail
If you're drawn to narratives that blend personal discovery with historical intrigue, "Great-Uncle Harry" might resonate with you. Michael Palin leads us on a quest that is as much about family and memory as it is about the echoes of war. The book connects the past with the present through painstaking research that reveals not just a family member's life, but also a slice of world history. His storytelling could offer you both an emotional connection and a richer understanding of the Great War's personal impact.
Phyllis;Dietrich Richardson
|
Thames
And
Hudson
Ltd
London
Regular price
RM44.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
66% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.93
Regular price
RM44.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
66% off
- Unit price
- / per
If you're intrigued by London's dynamic culture and want insights that feel almost like whispered secrets from a local, this guide is for you. With its colorful photos and maps, it'll be as if you're already wandering those London streets, planning where to indulge in the best the city offers, from sipping artisan coffee to uncovering hidden vintage shops.
Colson Whitehead
|
Doubleday
The Colossus of New York: A City in 13 Parts
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.72
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
42% off
- Unit price
- / per
75% off est. retail
If you've ever felt the rush of New York City, Colson Whitehead's "The Colossus of New York" will resonate with you. It's not just a book; it's an immersion into the city's vibrant heart through deftly painted vignettes. Whitehead's fluid prose, changing perspectives, and intimate tales capture the soul of NYC for both the dreamers and the hardened, offering a connection as tangible as the city's own streets. Whether you're a local or a stranger, this book offers a piece of New York's ceaseless energy to keep for yourself.
Nathaniel Philbrick
|
Penguin
Books
In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.16
Regular price
RM34.00 MYR
RM26.00 MYR
24% off
- Unit price
- / per
73% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the blend of history with harrowing survival tales, "In the Heart of the Sea" is a masterpiece you shouldn't miss. Nathaniel Philbrick brings an infamous nautical catastrophe vividly to life, intertwining rich historical detail with the stark terror faced by the men of the Essex. This book promises not just a gripping story but a thought-provoking reflection on humanity's relationship with the sea and the creatures within it.
Martin Nicholas Kunz, Patricia Masso |
Teneues
Luxury Hotels: Top of the World
Regular price
RM64.00 MYR
RM49.00 MYR
23% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 5.0
Regular price
RM64.00 MYR
RM49.00 MYR
23% off
- Unit price
- / per
89% off est. retail
If you've ever daydreamed about the pinnacle of hospitality, "Luxury Hotels: Top of the World" offers you a lavish visual journey through these extraordinary destinations. Exploring this book is like being handed the golden key to the world’s most exclusive retreats, it allows your imagination to travel to places where luxury and beauty know no bounds. It's perfect for those who appreciate the finer things or aspire to experiences that are truly once in a lifetime.
New
Lonely Planet, Meaghan Amor |
Lonely
Planet
Publications
One Planet: Inspirational Travel Photographs from the Lonely Planet Images Collection
RM75.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.35
RM75.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
If you've got the soul of an explorer itching for breathtaking destinations, "One Planet" is like a treasure chest of inspiration for you. Flipping through these pages is akin to teleporting across diverse landscapes, cultures, and moments – a perfect companion for dreamers planning their next adventure or armchair travelers who love to indulge in the beauty of our world without leaving their cozy nook.
Abigail Blasi, Duncan Garwood |
Geoplaneta
Rome - Travel Guide
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
58% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.18
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM19.00 MYR
58% off
- Unit price
- / per
84% off est. retail
You're planning a Roman holiday, aren't you? Imagine walking through history with insider tips at your fingertips. This guide isn't just about ticking off tourist spots; it's about experiencing the Roman pulse—savoring that cappuccino as locals do, finding the Colosseum's nooks, or gazing up at Michelangelo's masterpiece. Let this book be your savvy local friend, revealing Rome's soul beyond the map.
Lonely Planet, Jeff Campbell |
Lonely
Planet
Hawaii
Regular price
RM37.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
59% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.01
Regular price
RM37.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
59% off
- Unit price
- / per
87% off est. retail
Recommendation:
- If you are dreaming of escaping to a tropical paradise, look no further than Hawaii. This comprehensive guidebook, written by Jeff Campbell, takes you on a journey through all six islands of this breathtaking archipelago. Discover the stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich local culture, and experience the vibrant traditions that make Hawaii truly unique. Whether you are planning a trip or simply want to explore from the comfort of your own home, this book will transport you to the idyllic shores of Hawaii.
Michael Lewis
|
W.
W.
Norton
&
Company
Boomerang: Travels in the New Third World
RM49.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.9
RM49.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
60% off est. retail
Boomerang explores the global financial crisis and how cheap credit affected society's behavior and economy, with a hilariously sad perspective. It is a good read for people interested in economics and global events, and for those who want a humorous take on a serious topic.
New
Marshall Cavendish Corporation
|
Marshall
Cavendish
Corp
Dim Sum - Mini Cookbooks
RM60.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 0.0
RM60.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
If you enjoy exploring the culinary arts at home and love the idea of creating bite-sized treats that can grace any social occasion, "Dim Sum" from the Mini Cookbooks series is right up your alley. The book entices with beautiful photography and easy-to-follow recipes, guiding you to become the star of your next get-together with authentic, delectable dim sum.
Biographies & Memoirs
New
Amy Poehler
|
Picador
Yes Please
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM39.00 MYR
13% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.85
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM39.00 MYR
13% off
- Unit price
- / per
If you love a blend of humor and honesty, "Yes Please" will feel like sitting down with a good friend who's not afraid to keep it real. Amy Poehler isn't just trying to make you laugh; she's sharing the kind of personal anecdotes and insights that could only come from someone who's been through the wringer and come out with a smile. Perfect for fans of comedy with a touch of heartfelt truth.
Daniel Gottlieb
|
Union
Square
&
Co.
Letters to Sam: A Grandfather's Lessons on Love, Loss, and the Gifts of Life
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.02
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
"Letters to Sam" is a poignant read, especially if you appreciate authenticity and emotional depth. Through a series of letters, Daniel Gottlieb shares wisdom and vulnerability with his grandson, making it not only a personal treasure for Sam but also a universal exploration of life's complexities. Whether you've faced similar challenges or not, Gottlieb's insights will resonate deeply and may provide a comforting perspective on your own experiences.
LASKAS Jeanne Marie
|
Bloomsbury
Circus
To Obama With Love, Joy, Hate and Despair
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM30.00 MYR
33% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.45
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM30.00 MYR
33% off
- Unit price
- / per
78% off est. retail
"To Obama" isn't just a peek behind the curtain of a historic presidency; it's a collection of American voices, each one raw and real. If you're curious about the impact of a leader on the lives of individuals or just love the idea of connecting with the hopes and struggles of fellow citizens, this book offers a mosaic of perspectives that shape the narrative of an era. Through it, the reader becomes a confidante to the joys and woes that reached a president's desk, making it a truly personal journey through Obama's two terms.
New
Ernesto Che Guevara
|
Harper
Pernnial
Reminiscences of the Cuban Revolutionary War
Regular price
RM56.00 MYR
RM55.00 MYR
2% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.95
Regular price
RM56.00 MYR
RM55.00 MYR
2% off
- Unit price
- / per
For those fascinated by iconic historical figures, this book provides an intimate look into Che Guevara's thoughts and experiences during the Cuban Revolutionary War. It's a unique chance to understand the man behind the myth, directly from his own writings, giving readers an up-close perspective of the events that shaped him into a global symbol of revolution.
Leon Panetta, Jim Newton |
Penguin
Press
Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace
Regular price
RM79.00 MYR
RM56.00 MYR
29% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.93
Regular price
RM79.00 MYR
RM56.00 MYR
29% off
- Unit price
- / per
71% off est. retail
If you're curious about the inner workings of US intelligence and defense, "Worthy Fights" is a compelling read. Leon Panetta provides a firsthand account of significant moments in recent history, delivering a blend of personal anecdotes and serious discussions on policy. It's an insightful dive into the complexities of leading during times of crisis and change.
Brian Shields, Charlotte Flair, Ric Flair |
St.
Martin's
Press
Second Nature: The Legacy of Ric Flair and the Rise of Charlotte
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.97
Regular price
RM30.00 MYR
RM15.00 MYR
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
89% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for WWE fans and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of professional wrestling. Ric Flair and Charlotte, a famous father-daughter duo, provide a candid and honest account of their lives in and out of the ring. From Ric Flair's legendary career and personal struggles to Charlotte's journey to becoming the inaugural WWE Women's Champion, their stories are filled with triumphs, challenges, and the undeniable passion for sports entertainment. Get ready to be inspired by their resilience and determination that prove greatness is truly second nature to them.
Lauren Goldstein Crowe
|
Thomas
Dunne
Books
Isabella Blow: A Life in Fashion
Regular price
RM101.00 MYR
RM71.00 MYR
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.91
Regular price
RM101.00 MYR
RM71.00 MYR
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
64% off est. retail
If you're captivated by fashion's most provocative characters, "Isabella Blow: A Life in Fashion" offers a deeply personal peek into the life of an industry game-changer. Isabella's life was as vivid and imaginative as the fashion she inspired—this biography isn't just about her tragedy, but her indelible mark on the fashion world. It recounts her amusing, shocking antics as well as her intimate battles, all wrapped in a narrative as stylish and bold as Isabella herself.
Melinda French Gates
|
Pan
Macmillan
Uk
The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM23.00 MYR
49% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.28
Regular price
RM45.00 MYR
RM23.00 MYR
49% off
- Unit price
- / per
55% off est. retail
"The Moment of Lift" is a catalyst for change. If you feel strongly about women's empowerment and social reform, Melinda Gates captures this brilliantly. Her personal journey entwined with global stories will not only inspire you but might also galvanize you to be part of the movement for equity and justice. It's more than just a book; it's an invitation to contribute to a larger and noble cause.
New
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
51% off est. retail
If you've ever felt the ache of nostalgia for simpler times or the weight of modern complexities, "Landlines" might resonate with you. It's a story that opens a window to introspection, weaving the magic of an old telephone into the narrative. This book could be a refreshing escape, allowing you to ponder the 'what-ifs' of life through a whimsically literal connection to the past.
Adeline Yen Mah
|
Ember
Chinese Cinderella: The True Story of an Unwanted Daughter
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.07
RM34.00 MYR
- Unit price
- / per
48% off est. retail
If you ever need a story to remind you of the power of tenacity and hope, "Chinese Cinderella" could be that tale. Adeline Yen Mah's raw and touching narrative takes you through her challenging journey, making each page a testament to her spirit. It's not just a memoir; it's an affirmation that resilience can lead to triumph despite heartbreak.