A Book for the Hammock

A Book for the Hammock is a restored edition of William Clark Russell’s 19th‑century collection of nautical essays, sea stories, and maritime reflections. This 2026 edition presents the material in a clean, modern format for readers interested in sea literature, maritime history, and the romantic legacy of sailing life.

Russell, a former sailor turned novelist, writes with poetic nostalgia about the vanishing age of sail, the character of ships and seamen, and the emotional depth of life at sea. His essays blend personal experience with literary flair, offering a quiet, contemplative view of the ocean’s power, mystery, and cultural significance.

Designed for sailors, historians, collectors, and readers who appreciate classic maritime writing, this volume is part of the Rectory Print Skills series — a collection dedicated to restoring practical and reflective works that illuminate the skills, traditions, and emotional landscapes of earlier eras.