3.5 stars Publication date UK format 14/10/22 book 278 pages
I would like to thank the author, publishers and Netgalley for allowing me to pick this to read and review. all my reviews are honest.
Synopsis
Container shipping is a vital part of the global economy. Goods from all around the world, from vegetables to automobiles, are placed in large metal containers which are transported across the ocean in ships, then loaded onto tractor-trailers and railroad flatbeds. But when and where did this world-changing invention get started? This fascinating study traces the birth of containerization to Port Newark, New Jersey, in 1956 when trucker Malcom McLean thought of a brilliant new way to transport cargo. It tells the story of how Port Newark grew rapidly as McLean’s idea was backed by both New York banks and the US military, who used containerization to ship supplies to troops in Vietnam. Angus Gillespie takes us behind the scenes of today’s active container shipping operations in Port Newark, talking to the pilots who guide the ships into port, the Coast Guard personnel who help manage the massive shipping traffic, the crews who unload the containers, and even the chaplains who counsel and support the mariners. Port Newark shines a spotlight on the unsung men and women who help this complex global shipping operation run smoothly. Since McLean's innovation, Port Newark has expanded with the addition of the nearby Elizabeth Marine Terminal. This New Jersey complex now makes up the busiest seaport on the East Coast of the United States. Some have even called it “America’s Front Door.” The book tells the story of the rapid growth of worldwide containerization, and how Port Newark has adapted to bigger ships with deeper channels and a raised bridge. In the end, there is speculation of the future of this port with ever-increasing automation, artificial intelligence, and automation.
My Review
This was a great book. It definitely made for a very interesting read. I have always been fascinated by container ships and their movement. This book certainly didn't disappoint me. I found it very interesting as I knew nothing about the subject. It was a great start on my journey of learning as the information looked at a specific area. It was brilliant learning about this area of America. Its development and changes through history. There were plenty of differences stories about its history which I really enjoyed. I thought the author did a great job at researching for this book and it was interesting reading about his visits. I learnt quite a bit from reading this book. You certainly don't have to live I the area or even America to enjoy reading this book. There was so great pictures to break up the text and gave the book that extra dimension. I would definitely recommend this book if you have an interest in container shipping and its history or even want to learn about the area covered. I actually rated this book as a 3.5 star read rounded up as it was better than an average rating but not quite there for the 4 star rating. It was a very enjoyable experience reading this book. If you think this book is for you try a sample to see if it is a perfect fit for you.
Many thanks to the author and publishers for bringing us this great history book on a subject I rarely see. I hope to find more books by this author about the history of shipping containers as he makes it a joy to learn about.
Where you can buy this book
Amazon US K $26.15, HC $33.31
Waterstones HC £27.50
B&N HC $33.95
Kobo EB £18.99
Amazon UK K £23.28, HC £35.74
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