And the Ocean Was Our Sky by Patrick Ness

It introduces you to an interesting world and some great characters. That’s not to say that it isn’t an accessible novel for newbies. I have the gist of it but I don’t have experience with Melville’s language. Maybe it also doesn’t help that I’m only aware of the original novel on very basic terms. As it was, I found the story to drag a little, which is ridiculous considering how short it is. I’ve seen the illustrations that accompany the physical edition and I reckon they’d have brought an extra level to the story. I have to wonder if I missed some of the magic by listening to this as an audiobook. But is Toby Wick real or just a dangerous obsession? Together, the pod of whales is tracking the ruthless whale hunter, Toby Wick and his white ship.

Still, there was no way Patrick Ness could have picked any other opening line than “Call me Bathsheba.” Bathsheba is a hunter of men and a junior officer under Captain Alexandra. There’s nothing wrong with being so obvious with your references but the nods and winks did kind of beat you around the face.

I can’t say that this is the subtlest retelling that I’ve ever read. Although, I was slightly worried that I would be missing out on something. I could go in with fresh eyes and read it without preconceptions. Why not start with this version then? At least I wouldn’t unfairly compare it to the original book. Not that I’ve actually read Herman Melville’s classic novel because it seems like a lot of hard work. It was the kind of juicy and fun premise that draws you in. I have to admit that I couldn’t resist the concept of a flipped Moby Dick that saw whales hunting man. So, when this came up on my library’s online catalogue I decided to give it a go. When this happens, I always wonder if I’m missing something. Still, a lot of people seem to really like him. I liked A Monster Calls but really didn’t like The Rest of Us Just Live Here or Burn. I’ve only ever read 3 books by Patrick Ness before.

And the Ocean Was Our Sky by Patrick Ness