Moby-Dick or, The Whale

by Herman Melville
Moby-Dick or, The Whale cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Adventure
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99–£16.99 Hardback • £12.99–£20.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 5508
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9783985103973
  • Publisher: coolaij
  • Published: 2022-06-14
  • Formats: 10
  • Reviews: 3

This illustrated edition of Herman Melville's classic novel, 'Moby-Dick; or, The Whale,' brings to life the epic tale of obsession and revenge. The story is narrated by Ishmael, a sailor aboard the whaling ship Pequod, which is commanded by the monomaniacal Captain Ahab. Ahab's single-minded pursuit of the giant white sperm whale, Moby Dick, drives the crew on a perilous journey across the seas. /n/n The novel is not only a gripping adventure but also a deep exploration of themes such as good and evil, fate and free will, and the nature of obsession. The illustrated edition enhances the reading experience with visual representations of the objects and places mentioned in the novel, providing a richer context for the narrative.

Reviews
Reddit - BadReads · 2025-10-24
intense 3.00

The book opens with extensive whale quotes, which can be overwhelming, but it offers a unique perspective on obsession and the sea. The narrative is intense and sometimes dull.

This Reddit review points out that Moby-Dick starts with a lot of whale quotes, which can be a bit much, but it also offers a unique take on obsession and the sea. The reviewer finds the narrative intense at times but also acknowledges moments of dullness. They appreciate the book's exploration of deep themes and its ability to create a vivid picture of the maritime world.

Quick quotes

    "The book opens with half a dozen pages of obsessively researched whale quotes, for Christ's sake."

    "Ishmael in many ways is a self-insert for Melville, making the narrative intensely personal."

    "This was a journey, a long journey. Sometimes it was dull (my one gripe) and sometimes it was intense."

Medium · Desiree Winns · 2025-10-24
profound 4.50

Moby-Dick is not just about a whale; it's a profound exploration of human obsession and the natural world. The narrative style is engaging and thought-provoking.

Desiree Winns' review emphasizes that Moby-Dick is far more than a story about a whale. It delves into the themes of obsession and the human relationship with nature. The reviewer finds the narrative style engaging and thought-provoking, highlighting the book's depth and complexity. They appreciate the way Melville weaves together different elements to create a rich and layered story.

Quick quotes

    "Moby-Dick, despite its title, is not about a whale. Moby-Dick is about three things: obsession, the natural world, and the human relationship with it."

    "The narrative style is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a compelling read."

    "Melville's use of different literary styles and themes adds to the book's complexity and depth."

Write Out Loud Blog · 2021-05-09
fascinating 4.50

The book is often praised as 'the first great American novel' and is enigmatic due to its range of literary styles. It offers a deep dive into the past and a glimpse into the future.

This review highlights Moby-Dick as a cornerstone of American literature, noting its enigmatic and strange nature due to the variety of literary styles employed. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to transport readers into the past while also offering insights into the future. They find it a fascinating and challenging read, making it a significant piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    "The book is often praised as 'the first great American novel' and referred to as enigmatic and strange because of a range of literary styles and themes."

    "At any rate, the book is a fascinating and challenging read for both its glimpse into the past and its possibility for changing the future."

    "The novel is absolutely loaded with action, regardless of whether harpoons are being thrown."

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