Summary
1629 Mutiny on the Batavia is a historical fiction by Henry Van Zanden. The story takes place across four continents: Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, and relives the indiscriminate and brutal slaughter of the people who survived the sinking of the Batavia, the largest ship built in 1628. Based on Commander Pelsaert’s journal which was first published in 1647 and became a bestseller, the author filled the gaps in history by incorporating fiction from his own theories.
Review
I have a faint heart, so when I read this, I was completely appalled at Jeronimus Cornelisz; he is the epitome of evil. Reading this book was very distressing, but I recognize the passion of the author to revive one of the greatest stories ever told. It was worth reading it, despite the grueling journey. It was, indeed, a story that should be shared and I’m glad the author preserved as much historical facts as he could, and even shared excerpts from Pelsaert’s journal, as well as photos and illustrations, which helped provide a vivid picture of the historical events. That picture of a shipwright’s adze though, I wish I hadn’t seen that.
Overall, I’m giving this 4 out of 5 stars. I am impressed by the passion of the author to rewrite history and fill its gaps through his creative mind. I think this book will be best appreciated as a movie, and I could imagine that if there will be an adaptation, it will be a huge production. I recommend this to readers who love historical fiction and thriller.
https://www.amazon.com/1629-Mutiny-Batavia-Henry-Zanden-ebook/dp/B01FSVTUE2/
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