The Vendée Globe in bookstores: a selection of books for sailing around the world

The Vendée Globe in bookstores: a selection of books for sailing around the world
The Vendée Globe in bookstores: a selection of books for sailing around the world

“Never give up” by Alexandre Chenet and Renaud Garreta

© Éditions Dargaud

On November 8, 2020, 33 sailors set off for the 9th edition of the Vendée Globe, a legendary race which tests the courage and determination of sailors in often hostile weather conditions. “Never give up” is a comic strip that retraces this epic adventure through the eyes of Alexandre Chenet and Renaud Garreta. The authors, sailing experts, depict not only the key moments of the competition, such as a significant shipwreck and a heroic rescue, but also the resistance of older generations of foilers in the face of modern challenges and the painful abandonments of certain participants. This captivating graphic story is enriched with a detailed file on the skippers and boats expected for the 2024 edition. With its hyper-realistic illustrations and vibrant colors, this comic strip stands out for its impressive visual quality, while offering a carefully written and well-researched text, allowing readers to dive into the heart of the reality of the Vendée Globe and its human challenges.

Edition: Éditions Dargaud
Release date: 10/18/2024
Name of pages: 72
Prix : 16,50 €

“Sailor from the Vendée” by Arnaud Boissières

© Éditions du Rocher

Arnaud Boissières, experienced sailor and participant in the Vendée Globe, shares his personal experience in this book. It discusses not only the technical aspects of the race, but also the mental and physical preparation necessary to face the challenges of this adventure. Readers get a behind-the-scenes look at the race through the eyes of a passionate sailor. This book is ideal for those who want to understand the life of a Vendée Globe sailor from the inside. Arnaud Boissières offers an authentic and enriching perspective, while sharing valuable advice on navigation and resilience. A sailor and sportsman appreciated for his accessibility, Arnaud Boissières manages to maintain the outlook of a seafaring craftsman in a competition where technological and financial resources are increasingly important.

Edition: Éditions du Rocher
Release date: 08/21/2024
Name of pages: 224
Prix : 19 €

“Behind the scenes of the Vendée Globe with Romain Attanasio” by Bertrand Parent

© Éditions Glénat

In this book, author Bertrand Parent immerses us in the demanding world of this emblematic sailing race. Through the memories of Romain Attanasio, this work reveals behind the scenes of meticulous preparation for one of the most difficult events in the world. Romain, who is preparing to start his third Vendée Globe, is now part of the elite of the IMOCA class. We explore the challenges that mark the preparation of a sailor: putting together a budget of several million euros, building a competent team to manage the equipment, acquiring a high-performance boat, and carefully preparing it for the competition. Romain also shares his personal preparation secrets, because spending three months alone on an IMOCA, facing often unpredictable weather conditions, requires rigorous physical and mental training. Enriched with memorable anecdotes, Romain recounts notable moments in his career, such as his collision with a whale which cost him two rudders. This book offers a captivating look at the human and technical challenges of the Vendée Globe, revealing behind the scenes of this legendary race.

Edition: Éditions Glénat
Release date: 09/04/2024
Name of pages: 200
Prix : 19,95 €

In search of balance” by Eric Bellion

© Éditions Stock

Éric Bellion, a 47-year-old passionate sailor, invites us to dive into his unique maritime world. This book reveals how, over the years, he not only pursued his dreams, but exceeded them. Eric has long welcomed sailors with varied backgrounds on board his boats, whether they are inexperienced, unsuitable or disabled, with the intention of passing on to them his passion for the sea while learning himself alongside them. With disarming frankness, he traces a sailing career that deviates from the norm, beginning with an impromptu round-the-world trip with two friends aboard Kifouine, an 8.60 meter wreck. His journey then led him to ocean racing, with a dream: to participate in the Vendée Globe. During the 2016-2017 edition, he finished in an impressive 9th place. Eric shares here his emotions, his fears, his doubts and his desire to abandon, while confiding that despite his promises not to set foot in such an adventure again, he is committing again for this edition aboard his new sailboat, Stand As One. This inspiring story, both personal and universal, shows us the beauty and complexity of sailing alone.

Edition: Éditions Stock
Release date: 09/11/2024
Name of pages: 350
Prix : 15,99 €

“Jean le Cam, my Vendée Globe” by Philippe Joubin

© Éditions Solar

Philippe Joubin offers a reissue of the reflections of Jean le Cam, one of the most emblematic sailors of the Vendée Globe. The book compiles his personal stories and experiences over several editions of the race. It is a tribute to his career and his love for the sea.
This book is a great dive into the personality of a charismatic sailor. Jean le Cam shares his life lessons, failures and successes, providing a source of inspiration for all sailing and adventure enthusiasts.

Edition: Éditions Solar
Release date: 10/17/2024
Name of pages: 184
Prix : 32,00 €

These works each shed a different light on the Vendée Globe and its sailors. Whether you are a sailing enthusiast or simply curious about the stories of human challenges, these books will enrich your understanding of this legendary race. Find our special Vendée Globe report here !

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