I bought this book as a textbook for my kayaking class. The author is very thorough, explaining everything you would need to know for sea kayaking, including proper paddling techniques, rolls, rescues, even detailing useful provisions for kayaking trips, what to look for when buying a new kayak, and how to predict and be prepared for various weather conditions. The book has tons of diagrams to help with the explanations. You could become a skilled kayaker by just following the directions in this book. He covers everything. It can get a little bit dry at times, so I wouldn't say i "love" it, but it is very good quality.I have really enjoyed sea kayaking. My first instructor recommended this book and it has been great. Simple tips that have helped me have a more efficient stroke.BUY THIS BOOK !!I love this book, Derek is funny and incredibly informative. I originally got it at the library and read it over and over and over, and then finally bought it and read it again. Learn something new every time.....If you are going to get one book on kayaking, this is it!Simple, great intro book.Pros: A very detailed and technical section on strokes. Enjoyable reading.Cons: Dated. Much information specific to "British" kayaking. Not a single mention of how to tie a knot. Many nautical terms not defined.classicA++++I found this book very helpful as I was learning kayaking. This book covers a large variety of topics with detailed cartoon-like illustrations as well as some photos. I am attaching a sample page from the book to show you what a typical explanation looks like. I found explanations to be a great reminders/re-freshers of the kayaking classes I took on the water. I read the book several times as my skills improved and every time I was able to find something new and useful.Here are the chapters of the book:1. Equipment2. Basic strokes and techniques3. Advanced strokes and techniques4. Surging5. Rescues6. Waves7. Winds and weather8. Tides and tidal streams9. Navigation10. Arctic origins of the sea kayakingThis book is not just a manual for learning how to improve your kayaking technique and tips on outfitting your boat. This book covers kayaking history and shares author's passion for the kayak. I enjoyed every page no matter how many times I read it! I recommend this book.Ali Julia reviewWell written, authoritative book.Completo ed esauriente, lo consiglio a tutti gli appassionati di sea kayaking. Corroborato dalle esperienze personali dell'autore, che oltre a traversate memorabili in mare aperto è istruttore di kayak.