Frances Barkley: Eighteenth-century Seafarer is one of our terrific November giveaways.

Find your chance to win on our giveaways page, where you can also check out all the other books we've got on offer.

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In 1786 Frances Barkley, at 17 years of age, set sail with her husband Captain Charles Barkley on an eight-year trading mission that would take her around the world twice. Her story is a remarkable one: it is one born of discovery, of firsts, of hardship, of illness, and of death. Relying on her strength of character and wit, this young woman survived fierce seas that have taken many to a watery grave, shipwreck, capture by pirates, and taken as prisoner of war by enemy forces. And when life seemed as if it could not be more distressing, she was thrown into an inferno of deceit and of betrayal.

Yet her story is also one of beauty, of wonder, of joy and love—a love so great that this young girl would leave the comfort and security of her home and family to follow a man whom she barely knew around the world on a very perilous voyage. 

The books I have chosen all connect to Frances Barkley’s story. Some delve into sea adventures and the historic struggles for supremacy in maritime trade, while others are memoirs. Two books, Ducks and Mamaskatch might seem unrelated but each highlight themes of character, resilience, and hardship—qualities that Frances Barkley embodied. Books are my lifeblood, and each of these has taught me valuable lessons. I share them with you in the hope that you find them as compelling as I have.

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Arctic Ambitions: Captain Cook and the Northwest Passage, edited by James. K. Barnett and David L. Nicandri

Arctic Ambitions is an anthology featuring 18 essays by a diverse group of international scholars. This visually stunning and beautifully illustrated book is a must-have for anyone interested in maritime history and the struggle for sovereignty in the Arctic and Pacific Northwest. It delves deeply into the legacy of Captain James Cook, a figure who remains somewhat enigmatic, and explores his significant contributions to cartography including his often-overlooked third voyage in 1776 to discover the elusive Northwest Passage.

One of the most engaging aspects of the book is how it contextualizes Cook’s historical voyages within the contemporary issues facing the Arctic. It explores the profound implications of melting Arctic sea ice for Canada, touching on commercial, security, and sovereignty concerns. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts among Arctic nations to manage the increasing marine transportation in the region. Once you start reading this book, you’ll be captivated by its insights and perspectives.

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Fortune’s A River: The Collision of Empires in Northwest America, by Barry Gough

Barry Gough is a towering figure in the realm of Canadian maritime and naval history. As one of the country’s foremost historians in this field, his contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. Gough’s extensive body of work has garnered critical acclaim, with his numerous awards including the prestigious Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, bestowed for his significant contributions to civic life in Canada. His academic credentials—Ph.D., Litt.D.h.c., LL.D.h.c.—further underscore his authority in the field. For anyone seeking reliable maritime historical information, Gough’s work is an indispensable resource.

Fortune’s A River is one of Gough’s standout contributions, having earned several accolades, including the John Lyman Book Award for best Canadian Naval Maritime History. I have kept this book close at hand since its release, frequently turning to it for insights, particularly during my research on Frances Barkley and the fur trade in Nootka Sound.

In Fortune’s A River, Gough provides a captivating exploration of the fierce competition for dominance along the Northwest Coast, examining the imperial struggles of Russia, Spain America, and Britain/Canada. The book delves into the complex dynamics that shaped the territorial boundaries of British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, and Oregon. Gough’s skillful unraveling of the tangled historical threads results in a compelling narrative that sheds light on this pivotal chapter in history.

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Boxing the Compass: A Life of Seafaring, Music, and Pilgrimage, by Michael L. Hadley

“Boxing the compass” is a nautical term that refers to reciting all 32 points on the compass in order—an apt metaphor for Michael Hadley’s memoir. Hadley takes us on an extraordinary journey offering a profound reflection on life. From his early years growing up in a remote coastal lighthouse station on the western edge of Vancouver Island, extending through his travels with the Kitsilano Boys’ Band, and delving into the rhythmic world of jazz, Hadley’s experiences span a vast range of life’s compass points. His disciplined path as a naval officer, combined with his academic pursuits and commitment to restorative justice and reconciliation across distant lands, enriches his narrative. Infused with wisdom, compassion, resilience and a deep dedication to humanity, this memoir weaves together the threads of life that lead to a broader understanding of our world, our history and ourselves.

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Frozen in Time: The Fate of the Franklin Expedition, by Owen Beattie and John Geiger

The Franklin Expedition’s harrowing journey through the Arctic Archipelago in 1845 is a tale of unimaginable suffering. Scurvy, malnourishment, starvation, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lead poisoning were just some of the afflictions that claimed the lives of Sir John Franklin and his 129 officers and crew. Despite his experience from two previous overland Arctic expeditions, Franklin’s hubris, coupled with British determination and the desire to be the one to chart the elusive Northwest Passage, led him to command HMS Erebus and HMS Terror (under Captain Francis Crozier) into the unforgiving Arctic.

Franklin was 61 when he perished aboard the icebound Erebus on June 11, 1847. The tragic outcome of the expedition is meticulously chronicled in Frozen in Time, which not only details the crew’s struggles but also recounts the countless efforts to locate the two missing ships. The Franklin Expedition is often regarded as one of the most catastrophic events in the history of Arctic exploration. For decades, the mystery of how they died and the location of the Erebus and Terror haunted explorers and historians alike.

Over time, grim details emerged—clothing, bones, artifacts, and evidence of cannibalism. However, it wasn’t until Parks Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, and the Inuit community collaborated that the ships were finally found—first Terror in 2014, and then Erebus in 2018. Even today, research continues. In 2023, archaeologists made 68 dives aboard the Terror, the more intact of the two vessels, uncovering more information about this ill-fated expedition.

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The Curve of Time, by M. Wylie Blanchet

The Curve of Time stands as a beloved classic in the realm of maritime literature, chronicling the enchanting coastal waters of British Columbia. First published in England in 1961 and later in Canada in 1968, this singular work by M. Wylie Blanchet (known affectionately as Capi among her friends) has captivated readers for over five decades and remains a treasured gem for anyone with a passion for the coast.

Having spent 30 years cruising these waters myself, I can attest to the enduring charm of Capi’s prose. My own copy, weather-beaten and slightly waterlogged from countless voyages, has always been a steadfast companion.

Blanchet’s writing is nothing short of magical. Her narrative transports readers to the 1920s and '30s, where she, along with her five children and their loyal dog Pam—who at times resided in the dinghy towed behind their small boat—explores the mesmerizing coastal landscape. We journey with her across the windswept waters of the Salish Sea exploring inlets, rocky shores, islands and archipelagos, while visiting First Nations villages, and braving treacherous rapids. Her evocative descriptions and enchanting storytelling make every page a voyage in itself.

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Heart of the Raincoast: A Life Story, by Alexandra Morton and Billy Proctor

Heart of the Raincoast a offers a vivid and compelling narrative about the life in the remote Broughton Archipelago, located off the eastern shores of Vancouver Island. This intricate maze of over 200 islands, inlets, and cul-de-sacs is home to a thriving ecosystem, where ravens, eagles, orcas, salmon, and bears coexist in the heart of the rainforest. This book captures the rugged beauty and ecological significance of this sparsely populated area, which is also the ancient homeland of the Kwakwaka’waka, a people deeply connected to the water.

In this remote paradise, the lives of a few residents embody the spirit of independence, resilience, and resourcefulness needed to survive. Billy Proctor, a fisherman, hand logger, beachcomber, storyteller, and activist, stands out as a significant figure. Alongside him is his neighbour, Alexandra Morton, a biologist and researcher who shares his dedication to preserving this fragile environment. Together, they recount the pioneering life on the coast and the gradual degradation of natural resources due to the encroachment of outside companies. Their story reveals the heartbreaking yet inspiring battle to protect this magnificent corner of the world from human interference.

More than just a memoir, Heart of the Raincoast it is a call to action, a tribute to a vanishing way of life, and a celebration of the resilience of both people and nature. This book is deeply moving and beautifully written, making it a must-read for anyone interested in environmental conservation, the Pacific Northwest, stories of the sea, or the indomitable human spirit. For those intrigued by Billy Proctor’s stories, his book Full Moon Flood Tide: Bill Proctor’s Raincoast, co-authored with Yvonne Maximchuk offers further insights into his life and the challenges of living in a remote area of the British Columbia coastline.

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Mamaskatch: A Cree Coming of Age, by Darrel J. McLeod

Darrel McLeod, A Cree from Treaty-8 Territory in Northern Alberta, was a man of exceptional talents and accomplishments. His diverse roles ranged from musician and educator to chief negotiator of land claims and director of education and international affairs with the Assembly of First Nations.

McLeod’s memoir Mamaskatch, which won the Governor General’s Literary Award, has been a touchstone for me since I first read it in 2019. Since then, it has earned a place on my re-reading list multiple times. This memoir embodies the essence of what a powerful personal narrative should be. McLeod’s story is one of emotional depth and resilience, navigating thought a turbulent childhood marked by instability, chaos, and violence.

In Mamaskatch, McLeod vividly recounts how education, boundless curiosity, innate resilience, and a deep connection to his ancestors helped him surmount the challenges of poverty, discrimination, and familial instability. His writing is a testament to his skill—animated, smooth, eloquent, and unflinchingly honest,

This memoir serves not only as a compelling personal journey but also as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. His legacy, through this book and other works, will continue to illuminate the path for others navigating their own struggles.

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Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands, by Kate Beaton

Ducks is a captivating autobiography by Kate Beaton, who, like many others from the Maritimes, departed her hometown of Mabou, Nova Scotia, in search of work in the oil sands of Alberta. From 2005-2008, she laboured to pay off her university student loans. Through her graphic narrative, Beaton explores broader themes of migration, loneliness, boredom, and isolation, as well as the darker facets of life, such as harassment and sexual assault. The book can be difficult to read at times, stirring up powerful emotions. The stark grey-and white illustrations deepen the emotional resonance of her story, inviting readers to confront the grim realities of life in a space marked by dehumanizing conditions. Here, dangerous and demanding work, transient living situations, widespread drug addiction, unrecognized mental health struggles, and ignored sexual harassment create a challenging environment to navigate. Although Ducks resists straightforward interpretation, it highlights both human and environmental degradation that demands attention. This book immerses readers in the complexities of life in the oil sands, and Beaton’s experiences will linger with me for a long time.

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Learn more about Frances Barkley: Eighteenth-century Seafarer

A rivetingly imagined re-telling of the voyages of Frances Barkley (1769–1845), who as a young woman travelled the world on a trading mission with her sea captain husband.

Over two hundred years ago, Frances Barkley, a 17-year-old girl fresh out of a convent school in France, met 26-year-old sea captain, fell deeply in love, and married him after a six-week courtship. Five weeks later, she stepped aboard his ship, the Imperial Eagle, to set sail on an eight-year voyage that would take them around the world twice.

Frances Barkley’s story is a remarkable one. It is a story born of discovery, of firsts, of hardship, of disease, of illness, and of death. Relying on her strength of character and wit, this young woman survived fierce seas, shipwreck, and capture by pirates. When Frances was approaching her seventh decade, at the behest of her daughter, she put pen to paper and wrote down what she could remember of her life with her husband in the merchant sea trade. Frances Barkley: Eighteenth-century Seafarer is not simply a re-issue of Frances’s own reminiscences, but a work of creative non-fiction—an extensive reimagining of her time at sea, supplemented through extensive historical, geographic, and nautical research.