Books for a complete novice?

[Quidi Vidi]

I am new to sailing and have lots to learn about keeping and sailing a boat. I have Tom Cunliffes, the Complete Day Skipper, which i think is brilliant, I like his no nonsense style and simple explanations which help me understand what to me is a daunting subject. Can anyone reccommend any other books which will help me study over the winter months, in particular, boat maintainance, diesel engines, 12v electrics and of course sailing and navigating. I would prefer simple books which are easy to understand for the complete beginner. My boat is a 22ft Invader with bilge keels, 6Hp Perkins diesel inboard so i wont be crossing oceans, just sailing for fun.

 

[BobPrell]

The Kiss guide to Sailing has something about everything you would need to know, and is written in a style less childish than "for Dummies" and "Idiot's Guide" IMO.

In addition, join a library and look at what they have. Avoid trying to read everything, skim them , chose, borrow, read, and if you find it suits you, maybe buy your own copy.

Second hand cheap is good because you won't mind taking it out on the water where it might get damaged.

 

[nickd]

Hi
The best book I have ever read is Start To Win by Eric Twinname.
It is really aimed at dinghy sailors who want to race, however all the techniques described are applicable to anyone who wants to get the best out of a sailing boat.
It was out of print but I believe it has just been reprinted
Cheers

 

[machurley22]

On the maintenance side Nigel Calder's Boatowner's Mechanical and Electrical Manual is expensive (RRP=£45) but very comprehensive. Here at Amazon for £25.88.

 

[V1701]

As an alternative to Calder's book I bought Don Casey's "Complete Illustrated Sailboat Maintenance Manual". It's more basic and therefore digestible but covers pretty much everything...

For inspiration a second hand copy of Annie Hill's "Voyaging on a Small Income"...

Enjoy...