The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder by David Grann recounts the 18th-century wreck of the British naval ship, the Wager, during the War of Jenkins’ Ear, stranding survivors on an island off Patagonia. With little food or water, tensions rose as Captain David Cheap struggled to maintain control, ultimately leading to mutiny and murder, and the survivors faced a court martial upon their return to England. The book includes historical instances of violence and mutiny.

David Grann's The Wager is widely praised for its meticulous research and gripping narrative. Readers appreciate the vivid writing and historical accuracy, though some find the pacing uneven. The book successfully brings a fascinating, lesser-known naval journey to life, balancing detailed storytelling with insightful context. Ideal for history enthusiasts.

Fans of gripping historical narratives and survival tales, such as those found in Nathaniel Philbrick's In the Heart of the Sea or Erik Larson's Dead Wake, will be captivated by David Grann's The Wager. This meticulously researched account appeals to readers who enjoy thrilling true stories of human endurance and maritime adventure.

Suspenseful / Unnerving / Mysterious / Challenging / Adventurous

David Grann

Adult

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Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Wager reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Wager | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Wager Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Wager Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Wooden World”

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

The Wager Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Into the Storm”

Part 2, Chapters 4-7

The Wager Part 2, Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Castaways”

Part 3, Chapters 8-13

The Wager Part 3, Chapters 8-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Castaways” - Part 4: “Deliverance”

Part 3, Chapter 14-Part 4, Chapter 20

The Wager Part 3, Chapter 14-Part 4, Chapter 20 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Judgment”

Part 5, Chapters 21-26

The Wager Part 5, Chapters 21-26 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Wager Key Figures

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Themes

The Wager Themes

Index of Terms

The Wager Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

The Wager Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Wager Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

The Wager Book Club Questions

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Wager?

Reading Age

Book Details