In the introduction, David Grann writes that he “tried to present all sides, leaving it to you to render the ultimate verdict.” How did this note affect your approach to the book, if at all? Do you think he succeeded in his aim?

Book Clubs The Wager by David Grann Discussion
1

In the introduction, David Grann writes that rather than “smoothing out every difference, or further shading the already shaded evidence,” he’s “tried to present all sides, leaving it to you to render the ultimate verdict.” How did this note affect your approach to the book, if at all? Do you think he succeeded in his aim?

2

I think he succeeded in presenting all sides given the data he accessed. I was eager to read the book because of the strong reviews it received.

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3

He did allow each of the Brits to justify their own actions. And he, himself illustrated the treatment of the indigenous peoples.

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4

I think he did a great job presenting the many versions of what happened. This nonfiction book read like a fast paced mystery/thriller! I liked that he left it to the reader to determine what happened based on the handful of the crews interpretations while giving us background information on the lifestyle and hierarchy of life on a ship, the social climate of the time, and the islands geography and indigenous people.

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5

The author depicts all sides of how the journey affected everyone and that the struggles and the treatment were real for all involved during the journey and after they landed.

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6

Grann faithfully presented the facts plus including maps and antidotal stories of the previous sailings. I felt he was totally objective .

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7

I do think David Grann did a great job of presenting all sides. For the reader, it helped one to try to empathize with the various groups. The author didn’t make anyone group appear blameless or at fault. It is no wonder the court judgement regarding mutiny was inconclusive.

8

Yes, he did. At first i was Team Captain, then Team Mutineers, then Team Captain! Each time something happened, I’d say ummm, well. Great writing.

9

I think David Grann did a wonderful job in presenting all sides of what happened. He let the reader be the judge. I liked how he wrote this book, more like a fiction than non fiction. His writing was captivating.

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10

So far he’s done an excellent job in presenting facts from the available accounts and from different points of view.