PAUL ACADEMY
About the Lesson
A Tale of Resilience and Optimism
"Surviving the Storm," a thrilling tale set on the high seas, will captivate you. Join a brave crew and resolute passengers as they battle nature and death.
In this heartbreaking story, adults and children respond differently to danger. Watch the captain and crew think and respond quickly to defend the ship and her passengers. Discover how obligation, responsibility, and logical decision-making may overcome hardship.
The children's unshakeable optimism shines through. Explore their innocence and optimism as they bravely cross turbulent seas. Experience how their cheerfulness lifts spirits and strengthens the group to bear the worst hardship.
"We’re Not Afraid to Die...if We Can All Be Together" teaches lifesaving skills through a captivating story. Reflect on the present moment, human connections, resilience, and the reevaluation of priorities that result from such dangerous events. Learn how life's frailty can inspire appreciation and purpose.
Consider why people risk dangerous excursions. Discover what drives self-improvement, self-discovery, and adventure. Explore adrenaline, nature, and the development of lasting experiences that inspire adventure.
"We’re Not Afraid to Die...if We Can All Be Together" will inspire readers with its narrative of the human spirit, hope, and life's most
Explanations
Here is a list of incidents from the story "We’re Not Afraid to Die...if We Can All Be Together" in sequence:
Setting Sail: The narrator, his wife Mary, and their children Jonathan and Suzanne set sail from Plymouth, England, in July 1976 to replicate Captain James Cook's round-the-world voyage.
First Leg of the Journey: They sailed down the west coast of Africa to Cape Town, South Africa, where they took on two crew members, Larry Vigil and Herb Seigler.
Encountering Gales: After leaving Cape Town, they encountered continuous strong gales and massive waves in the southern Indian Ocean.
Christmas and New Year: Despite the harsh weather, they celebrated Christmas with a tree and hoped for better weather in the New Year, but it worsened instead.
January 2 - The Giant Wave: On January 2, a massive wave struck the ship, causing severe damage. The narrator was thrown overboard but managed to get back on board.
Water Filling the Ship: The ship started taking on water. The narrator, along with Larry and Herb, worked to pump out the water and repair the ship as best as they could.
Children’s Injuries: The narrator checked on his children. Suzanne had a bump on her head but didn't complain much as she didn’t want to worry her father.
Struggle with Repairs: The narrator and the crew made makeshift repairs to prevent more water from entering the ship. However, their hand pumps failed, and the electric pump was short-circuited.
Continuous Pumping: By January 4, after continuous pumping for 36 hours, they managed to reduce the water level inside the ship.
Calculating Position: The narrator tried to calculate their position, realizing they were near two small islands, including Ile Amsterdam, their only hope for survival.
Weather Deteriorates Again: The weather worsened, and they had to face another storm on January 5. The narrator decided to heave to protect the weakened side of the ship.
Jonathan’s Question: Jonathan asked his father if they were going to die, and when reassured, he expressed that they weren’t afraid to die if they could all be together.
Sue’s Card: Sue gave her father a card she made, expressing her love and hoping for the best.
Finding Ile Amsterdam: On January 6, after a tense period, Jonathan and Suzanne spotted Ile Amsterdam, which they initially feared they had missed.
Reaching Ile Amsterdam: They anchored offshore for the night and were helped ashore by the island's inhabitants the next morning.
Reflection: The narrator reflected on the courage and resilience of his family and crew, particularly Suzanne’s bravery despite her head injury, and Jonathan’s calm acceptance of their fate.
Characters
Here are the character sketches of the individuals in the text "We’re Not Afraid to Die...if We Can All Be Together" by Gordon Cook and Alan East:
1. Gordon Cook (The Narrator)
Role: The protagonist and the narrator of the story.
Character Traits: Gordon is a brave, responsible, and experienced sailor. He is determined and resourceful, which is evident when he tirelessly works to keep the ship afloat despite the overwhelming challenges. His love for his family drives him to push through physical pain and fear. He is also reflective, acknowledging his shortcomings while admiring the resilience and courage of his loved ones.
Leadership: As the captain of Wavewalker, Gordon takes charge during the crisis, making crucial decisions under immense pressure. His ability to remain calm in dire circumstances showcases his leadership skills.
Emotional Strength: Despite the terrifying situation, Gordon remains emotionally strong, motivating his crew and comforting his family, even when his own hope is fading.
2. Mary (The Narrator’s Wife)
Role: Gordon's wife and the mother of Jonathan and Suzanne.
Character Traits: Mary is supportive, brave, and resilient. She shares her husband's passion for sailing and demonstrates calmness and courage during the crisis. She stands by her husband, taking control of the wheel when needed and keeping the morale of the crew high. Her ability to maintain composure under stress and support her husband during their ordeal is admirable.
Nurturing Nature: Mary also shows her nurturing side by ensuring that her family is taken care of, finding food for them even in the midst of chaos. Her strength lies in her quiet determination and her unwavering support for her husband.
3. Jonathan (Son of Gordon and Mary)
Role: The six-year-old son of the narrator and Mary.
Character Traits: Jonathan, despite his young age, exhibits remarkable bravery and maturity. His calm acceptance of the possibility of death ("We’re not afraid of dying if we can all be together") reflects a deep emotional strength. His love for his family is profound, and he seeks to comfort his father, showing wisdom beyond his years.
Innocence and Courage: Jonathan's innocence is paired with a surprising level of courage. His understanding of the situation and his concern for his family, rather than himself, highlights his selflessness and strong character.
4. Suzanne (Daughter of Gordon and Mary)
Role: The seven-year-old daughter of the narrator and Mary.
Character Traits: Suzanne, like her brother, is brave and selfless. Even though she suffers a serious head injury, she downplays her pain to avoid worrying her parents. This shows her strong will and concern for others. Her artistic gesture of creating a card to lift her parents' spirits demonstrates her love and emotional intelligence.
Resilience: Suzanne’s ability to endure pain quietly and her efforts to stay positive in such a dire situation reflect her inner strength. Her drawing and message in the card she gives her father signify her deep affection for her family and her hope amidst adversity.
5. Larry Vigil
Role: One of the two crew members who joined the voyage in Cape Town.
Character Traits: Larry is depicted as a dedicated and hardworking sailor. He works tirelessly alongside Herb to pump out water and make repairs, demonstrating his commitment to the survival of the crew. His resilience and optimism during the crisis are crucial in keeping the morale of the group intact.
Dependability: Larry’s consistent efforts and refusal to give up, even under the most trying circumstances, highlight his reliability and strength as a crew member.
6. Herb Seigler
Role: The Swiss crew member who, like Larry, joined the voyage in Cape Town.
Character Traits: Herb, similar to Larry, is hardworking, reliable, and optimistic. He works relentlessly to save the ship, showing his dedication and resilience. His calm demeanor under pressure is a testament to his experience and courage.
Team Player: Herb’s ability to work in unison with Larry and the others to tackle the various challenges that arise during the storm underscores his importance as a team player and his strong work ethic.
7. Wavewalker (The Boat)
Role: Although not a human character, Wavewalker plays a critical role in the narrative.
Character Traits: Described as a "23-metre, 30-ton wooden-hulled beauty," Wavewalker is both the source of the family's dream and their survival. Despite the damage it sustains, the boat's resilience reflects the determination of its crew. The boat becomes a symbol of the family's struggle and endurance against nature's fury.
Each character in this story contributes to the theme of courage, resilience, and the power of familial love in the face of overwhelming odds.
Preparation
Understanding the text
1. List the steps taken by the captain
(i) to protect the ship when rough weather began.
(ii) to check the flooding of the water in the ship.
2. Describe the mental condition of the voyagers on 4 and 5 January.
3. Describe the shifts in the narration of the events as indicated in
the three sections of the text. Give a subtitle to each section.
ANSWERS
1. Steps taken by the captain:
(i) To protect the ship when rough weather began:
- Dropped the storm jib to slow down the boat.
- Lashed a heavy mooring rope across the stern.
- Double-lashed everything on deck.
- Went through the life-raft drill, attached lifelines, donned oilskins, and life jackets.
(ii) To check the flooding of water in the ship:
- Stretched canvas and secured waterproof hatch covers across the gaping holes.
- Made makeshift repairs to deflect water over the side.
- Used hand pumps to remove water, although they started to block up due to debris.
- Found and connected an electric pump to pump out water.
2. Mental condition of the voyagers on 4 and 5 January:
On January 4, after the wave hit and caused severe damage to the ship, the voyagers were in a desperate situation. They were continuously pumping out water, dealing with injuries, and facing the possibility of sinking. They were exhausted, cold, and uncertain about their chances of survival. On January 5, their situation remained dire, and they were mentally prepared for the worst. The children expressed their acceptance of death if it meant being together with their parents.
3. Shifts in the narration and subtitles for each section:
Section 1: Setting Sail and Facing the Storm
Covers the preparations, dreams, and initial leg of the voyage.
Subtitle: "Setting Sail in the Wake of Captain Cook"
Section 2: Battling the Enormous Wave and Damage
Describes the encounter with the massive wave and the resulting damage to the ship.
Subtitle: "The Devastating Wave and Onboard Chaos"
Section 3: Fighting for Survival and Finding Hope
Depicts the efforts to control flooding, make repairs, and search for refuge.
Subtitle: "Surviving the Ordeal and Discovering Hope"
Talking about the text
Discuss the following questions with your partner.
1. What difference did you notice between the reaction of the adults
and the children when faced with danger?
2. How does the story suggest that optimism helps to endure “the
direst stress”?
3. What lessons do we learn from such hazardous experiences when
we are face-to-face with death?
4. Why do you think people undertake such adventurous expeditions
in spite of the risks involved?
Thinking about language
1. We have come across words like ‘gale’ and ‘storm’ in the account.
Here are two more words for ‘storm’: typhoon, cyclone. How many
words does your language have for ‘storm’?
2. Here are the terms for different kinds of vessels: yacht, boat, canoe,
ship, steamer, schooner. Think of similar terms in your language.
3. ‘Catamaran’ is a kind of a boat. Do you know which Indian
language this word is derived from? Check the dictionary.
4. Have you heard any boatmen’s songs? What kind of emotions
do these songs usually express?
ANSWERS
Difference between the reaction of adults and children when faced with danger: In the story, there is a noticeable difference in the reaction of adults and children when confronted with danger. The adults, particularly the captain and crew, responded with a sense of duty and responsibility. They immediately took action, implementing practical measures to protect the ship and ensure the safety of everyone aboard. Their focus was on problem-solving, making rational decisions, and taking calculated risks. On the other hand, the children's reaction was marked by innocence, acceptance, and a remarkable display of optimism. They acknowledged the severity of the situation but maintained an unwavering hope and a belief that they would survive. Their ability to find solace in togetherness and their optimistic outlook allowed them to endure the challenges with resilience and determination.
The role of optimism in enduring "the direst stress": The story suggests that optimism plays a significant role in helping individuals endure extreme stress and adversity. Optimism provides a positive mindset that allows people to maintain hope, find meaning in difficult circumstances, and perceive potential solutions. In the story, the children's optimism is portrayed as a source of strength that empowers them to face the imminent danger. Their unwavering hope not only sustains their own spirits but also inspires and uplifts the adults around them. The story implies that optimism acts as a driving force, enabling individuals to endure the direst stress by fostering resilience, maintaining a sense of purpose, and generating the determination needed to overcome challenges.
Lessons learned from hazardous experiences when face-to-face with death: When faced with life-threatening situations, individuals often gain profound insights and lessons that can transform their perspective on life. Some of the lessons that can be learned from such hazardous experiences include:
Appreciation for the present moment: Near-death experiences remind individuals of the fragility and preciousness of life, prompting them to value and savor each moment.
Importance of human connections: When confronted with mortality, people often realize the significance of relationships and the need for genuine connections with others. They understand the importance of expressing love, gratitude, and forgiveness.
Resilience and inner strength: Surviving dangerous situations can cultivate resilience and inner strength. Individuals discover their capacity to endure and overcome immense challenges, empowering them to face future obstacles with greater fortitude.
Reevaluation of priorities: Confronting death prompts individuals to reevaluate their priorities, letting go of trivial concerns and focusing on what truly matters. It often leads to a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to live a more meaningful life.
Reasons for undertaking adventurous expeditions despite the risks involved: People undertake adventurous expeditions for various reasons, even in the face of inherent risks. Some motivations for engaging in such endeavors include:
Personal growth and self-discovery: Adventurous expeditions offer opportunities for individuals to push their limits, step out of their comfort zones, and discover their true capabilities. They provide a platform for personal growth, fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment.
Sense of exploration and curiosity: The innate human desire for exploration and discovery drives individuals to seek new experiences and venture into uncharted territories. The thrill of exploring the unknown can be highly rewarding and fulfilling.
Connection with nature and the environment: Many adventurous expeditions take place in natural and remote settings, providing a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level. Being immersed in awe-inspiring landscapes can evoke a sense of wonder, appreciation, and environmental consciousness.
Adrenaline and excitement: Engaging in adventurous activities often triggers a rush of adrenaline and excitement. The thrill and the sense of living in the moment can be immensely appealing for some individuals, outweighing the risks involved.
Creating memories and stories: Adventurous expeditions offer the opportunity to create lasting memories, forge strong bonds
Working with words
1. The following words used in the text as ship terminology are
also commonly used in another sense. In what contexts would
you use the other meaning?
knot stern boom hatch anchor
2. The following three compound words end in -ship. What does
each of them mean?
airship flagship lightship
3. The following are the meanings listed in the dictionary against
the phrase ‘take on’. In which meaning is it used in the third
paragraph of the account:
take on sth: to begin to have a particular quality or
appearance; to assume sth
take sb on: to employ sb; to engage sb
to accept sb as one’s opponent in a game,
contest or conflict
take sb/sth on: to decide to do sth; to allow sth/sb to enter
e.g. a bus, plane or ship; to take sth/sb
on board
Answers
1. Ship Terminology in Other Contexts
Knot:
Ship Terminology: A unit of speed used in maritime and aviation contexts, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour.
Other Context: A knot can also refer to a fastening made by tying a piece of string, rope, or something similar. For example, "He tied a knot in the rope to secure the tent."
Stern:
Ship Terminology: The rear part of a ship or boat.
Other Context: Stern can also describe a person's manner or expression as serious or strict. For example, "The teacher gave a stern warning to the noisy students."
Boom:
Ship Terminology: A long pole on a sailboat, attached to the bottom of a sail, used to control the angle and shape of the sail.
Other Context: Boom can also refer to a period of rapid economic growth or a sudden increase in popularity. For example, "The tech industry experienced a boom in the 1990s."
Hatch:
Ship Terminology: An opening or door in the deck of a ship, leading to the interior spaces below.
Other Context: Hatch can also refer to the process of a baby bird, reptile, or fish emerging from an egg. For example, "The eggs are expected to hatch in a few days."
Anchor:
Ship Terminology: A heavy object dropped from a ship to the seabed to prevent the vessel from drifting.
Other Context: Anchor can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone that provides stability or security. For example, "Her family was the anchor that kept her grounded during tough times."
2. Meanings of Compound Words Ending in -ship
Airship:
Meaning: A type of aircraft that is lighter than air and has an engine to propel it, typically a blimp or dirigible.
Flagship:
Meaning: The best or most important product, service, or location in a group or series, often used to describe the leading ship in a fleet or the main store in a retail chain.
Lightship:
Meaning: A ship equipped with a powerful light and anchored in a specific location to serve as a lighthouse, guiding other ships and warning them of hazards.
3. Meaning of "Take on" in the Context of the Third Paragraph
In the third paragraph of the account, the phrase "take on" is used in the context of hiring or bringing additional crew members on board the ship. The meaning aligns with the following dictionary entry:
take sb/sth on: to decide to do something; to allow something/someone to enter, e.g., a bus, plane, or ship; to take something/someone on board.
Context: "Before heading east, we took on two crewmen..." (Meaning: allowed or brought two crewmen on board the ship).
Critical Analysis of "We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together"
The lesson “We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together” by Gordon Cook and Alan East is an inspiring account of resilience, teamwork, and human spirit in the face of life-threatening challenges. It narrates the story of a family’s adventurous round-the-world voyage, their encounter with a ferocious storm, and their fight for survival. Through vivid descriptions and emotional depth, the narrative explores themes of bravery, family unity, and the triumph of hope over adversity.
Key Themes
Human Resilience and Courage
The story demonstrates the incredible strength of the human spirit. The narrator, his family, and the crew persistently battle nature’s fury. Despite injuries, exhaustion, and fear, they refuse to give up, embodying the resilience needed to face life's toughest challenges.
Family Unity
The title emphasizes the importance of togetherness. The family’s collective strength lies in their mutual support. Jonathan’s statement, “We aren’t afraid of dying if we can all be together,” symbolizes the emotional bond that keeps them motivated.
Optimism in Dire Circumstances
Optimism is a recurring theme. Suzanne’s thoughtful card, the children’s bravery, and the captain’s determination to find Ile Amsterdam all highlight how a positive outlook can help individuals endure even the direst situations.
The Power of Leadership and Teamwork
The captain’s quick decision-making and the relentless efforts of the crew showcase the importance of effective leadership and teamwork. Each member of the team contributes to the survival effort, illustrating the collective power of collaboration.
Structure and Narration
The narrative is divided into three distinct sections, each reflecting a different phase of the journey:
Preparation and Early Voyage: A detailed account of the family’s meticulous preparations and the initial excitement of their adventure. This section sets a hopeful and ambitious tone.
The Storm and Struggle: The tone shifts to tension and urgency as the family faces the storm. The vivid imagery of towering waves and the boat's damage immerses the reader in their struggle.
Rescue and Reflection: A tone of relief and gratitude dominates this section as the family reaches Ile Amsterdam. The reflection on the crew’s and children’s bravery adds an emotional depth to the story.
Symbolism
Wavewalker: The boat represents human ingenuity and endurance. Despite severe damage, it becomes a vessel of survival, mirroring the crew’s determination.
The Storm: A metaphor for life’s unexpected challenges, the storm tests the limits of human perseverance and adaptability.
Ile Amsterdam: The sight of the island symbolizes hope and salvation, demonstrating how persistence can lead to unexpected relief.
Language and Style
The language is simple yet evocative, making the narrative relatable and impactful. The use of vivid imagery (e.g., “waves towering as high as the main mast”) brings the storm to life. The first-person narration creates an intimate connection between the reader and the narrator’s experiences. Emotional moments, such as Suzanne’s card or Jonathan’s brave words, provide a poignant touch to the narrative.
Strengths
Emotional Appeal: The story engages readers emotionally, especially with the children’s courage and the family’s unity.
Vivid Descriptions: The detailed depiction of the storm and the boat’s damage enhances the story’s realism.
Inspirational Message: The narrative emphasizes values such as perseverance, optimism, and teamwork, leaving a lasting impression.
Limitations
Limited Backstory: The narrator provides minimal information about the crew members, Larry and Herb, which could have added depth to their characters.
Abrupt Ending: The resolution feels slightly rushed, with less focus on the aftermath and the family’s emotional recovery.
Relevance and Lessons
The story holds universal relevance, as it reflects how people can overcome overwhelming challenges with courage and determination. It teaches the value of preparation, quick thinking, and the strength derived from emotional bonds. The lesson also reminds us of the unpredictable power of nature and the need for humility and respect when facing it.
Conclusion
“We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together” is more than a survival story; it is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It inspires readers to face their fears, remain united in tough times, and never lose hope. The narrative beautifully balances the technical challenges of sailing with the emotional experiences of the voyagers, making it a compelling and impactful read.
Here is a timeline of events from the lesson “We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together”:
July 1976: The narrator, his wife Mary, and their children, Jonathan (6) and Suzanne (7), embark on a round-the-world voyage from Plymouth, England, aboard their boat, Wavewalker, inspired by Captain James Cook's historic journey.
Preparation: They spend 16 years honing their sailing skills in British waters and months testing their boat in rough conditions.
First Leg of Journey: They sail down the west coast of Africa to Cape Town, South Africa, without major incidents.
December 25, 1976: Despite bad weather, they celebrate Christmas at sea, 3,500 kilometers east of Cape Town.
January 2, 1977: The weather worsens with massive waves and violent storms. A monstrous wave hits Wavewalker, causing severe damage to the boat. The narrator is injured but manages to regain control of the ship.
January 3, 1977: The family battles flooding, pumping water out of the boat continuously. Suzanne's injuries, including a bump on her head and a deep cut, come to light. Despite their dire situation, she remains calm to avoid worrying her parents.
January 4, 1977: After 36 hours of pumping, they manage to bring the water level under control. They head towards Ile Amsterdam, their last hope of safety.
January 5, 1977: The storm intensifies again, further straining the weakened Wavewalker. Jonathan displays remarkable courage, stating he isn’t afraid to die if the family is together.
January 6, 1977: The storm subsides, and they finally spot Ile Amsterdam. They anchor offshore and receive help from the island's 28 inhabitants the following day.
Aftermath: The family reflects on the bravery of their children, the teamwork of their crew, and their survival against the odds. Suzanne undergoes several minor surgeries to treat her injuries.
Here are all the terms related to boats and marine engineering mentioned in the lesson “We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together”, along with their meanings:
General Boat Terms:
Wavewalker - The name of the family’s boat, a 23-meter, 30-ton wooden-hulled vessel.
Mainsail - The primary sail on a boat that provides propulsion.
Storm Jib - A small, sturdy sail used in stormy weather to maintain stability.
Mooring Rope - A heavy rope used to secure a boat to a dock or anchor.
Hatch - An opening in the deck of a boat, typically with a cover, used for access to below-deck areas.
Guard Rails - Safety rails along the edges of a boat to prevent people from falling overboard.
Main Boom - A horizontal pole extending from the mast, used to control the mainsail.
Lifeline - A safety rope attached to the boat to prevent crew from falling overboard.
Hull - The body of the boat, including the starboard (right side) and port (left side).
Navigational Terms:
Sextant - A navigational instrument used to measure angles and determine a ship’s position.
Compass - An instrument used for navigation, indicating direction.
Latitude and Longitude - Coordinates used to locate positions on Earth, crucial for navigation.
Course - The direction a boat is heading, usually measured in degrees.
Chart - A detailed map of a waterway used for navigation.
Drift - The movement of a boat caused by wind or currents.
Weather and Sea Conditions:
Gales - Strong winds, often creating large waves.
Knots - A unit of speed used in marine navigation, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour.
Wave Crest - The top of a wave.
Mayday Calls - Distress signals sent by ships or aircraft in emergencies.
Repairs and Maintenance:
Canvas - A durable fabric used for sails or covering damaged parts of the boat.
Waterproof Hatch Covers - Covers used to seal openings and prevent water ingress.
Electric Pump - A pump powered by electricity, used to remove water from a boat.
Hand Pump - A manual pump operated by hand to remove water.
Timbers - Structural pieces of wood forming part of the boat’s frame.
Anchoring and Stability:
Anchor - A heavy object dropped into the water to prevent a boat from drifting.
Sea Anchor - A device used to stabilize a boat in rough seas.
Rigging - The system of ropes, cables, and chains used to support a boat's masts and sails.
Crew and Operations:
Steering - Controlling the direction of the boat using the wheel or tiller.
Life Jackets - Safety gear worn to keep a person afloat in the water.
Crewmen - People who assist in operating and maintaining the boat.
Here is a detailed explanation of the terms related to boats and marine engineering:
General Boat Terms
Wavewalker
The name of the narrator's boat, a 23-meter-long, 30-ton wooden-hulled vessel built for long voyages and rough seas.
Mainsail
The largest sail on a boat, attached to the main mast and controlled by the main boom, providing most of the boat’s propulsion.
Storm Jib
A smaller, stronger sail designed for use during storms. It reduces the risk of capsizing by allowing the boat to maintain stability in high winds.
Mooring Rope
A strong rope used to secure a boat to a fixed structure like a dock or buoy, or to hold it in place at sea.
Hatch
An opening in the deck of a boat, often with a watertight cover, allowing access to below-deck areas like cabins or storage spaces.
Guard Rails
Safety barriers along the edges of a boat’s deck to prevent crew members from falling overboard.
Main Boom
A horizontal spar extending from the mast, to which the bottom of the mainsail is attached. It helps control the sail’s angle to the wind.
Lifeline
A safety line or rope used to secure crew members to the boat in rough seas, preventing them from being washed overboard.
Hull
The watertight outer structure of a boat that provides buoyancy and protects against water ingress. It includes the starboard (right side) and port (left side).
Navigational Terms
Sextant
A precision instrument used by sailors to measure the angle between a celestial body (like the sun) and the horizon, helping determine the ship’s latitude and longitude.
Compass
An instrument indicating direction relative to the Earth’s magnetic poles, essential for navigation.
Latitude and Longitude
A coordinate system used to pinpoint locations on the globe. Latitude specifies the distance north or south of the equator, and longitude specifies the distance east or west of the prime meridian.
Course
The direction in which a boat is traveling, measured in degrees relative to true north.
Chart
A detailed map of a specific water area, showing depths, currents, and navigational hazards like rocks or sandbars.
Drift
The sideways movement of a boat caused by wind or currents, often calculated to maintain the intended course.
Weather and Sea Conditions
Gales
Strong winds with speeds ranging from 34 to 40 knots, often causing rough seas and high waves.
Knots
A measurement of speed used in navigation, equal to one nautical mile per hour (1.852 kilometers per hour).
Wave Crest
The highest point of a wave, crucial for understanding wave height and the severity of sea conditions.
Mayday Calls
A universally recognized distress signal used by ships and aircraft in life-threatening situations.
Repairs and Maintenance
Canvas
A heavy-duty fabric used for sails or to patch damaged areas of a boat, providing temporary waterproofing.
Waterproof Hatch Covers
Special covers used to seal hatches against water ingress, particularly in stormy conditions.
Electric Pump
A pump powered by electricity to remove water from the bilges or interior spaces of a boat.
Hand Pump
A manually operated pump used to remove water when no power source is available or when electric pumps fail.
Timbers
Wooden structural components of a boat’s frame, providing strength and support.
Anchoring and Stability
Anchor
A heavy metal object dropped into the seabed to hold a boat stationary.
Sea Anchor
A device (such as a heavy rope or canvas bag) deployed into the water to create drag and stabilize the boat in rough seas.
Rigging
The system of ropes, cables, and chains used to support a ship’s masts and control the sails.
Crew and Operations
Steering
The act of controlling a boat's direction using a wheel, tiller, or other mechanism.
Life Jackets
Safety devices worn by crew to ensure buoyancy and survival if they fall overboard.
Crewmen
Individuals who assist with operating, navigating, and maintaining a boat.
Here are thirty small questions based on the lesson “We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together”:
Preparations and Voyage
Who is the narrator of the story?
What was the name of the narrator’s boat?
How long was the boat, Wavewalker?
Why did the family decide to go on this voyage?
From which port did the family set sail?
How many years did the family spend preparing for the voyage?
Who were the additional crew members taken on in Cape Town?
What route was the family following for their voyage?
Encountering the Storm
Where were they located on December 25, 1976?
What did they do to celebrate Christmas at sea?
What safety measures did the captain take as the storm approached?
What was the height of the waves during the storm?
What caused the initial damage to the boat?
What happened to the captain during the massive wave?
How did the captain regain control of the boat after the wave hit?
Flooding and Repairs
What items were used to repair the gaping holes in the hull?
How did the family manage to pump water out of the boat?
What problem did they face with the hand pumps?
What did the captain use to create a makeshift sea anchor?
Why couldn’t they hoist the main sail after the damage?
Family and Crew’s Resilience
How did Suzanne react to her injuries?
What did Jonathan say when he asked if they were going to die?
How did the children demonstrate bravery during the ordeal?
What role did Larry and Herb play in the crew’s survival?
What motivated the captain to continue fighting the storm?
Rescue and Aftermath
How did the captain calculate their position to find Ile Amsterdam?
What did Suzanne create to cheer up the captain?
How did Jonathan describe his father after spotting the island?
What kind of island was Ile Amsterdam?
How many inhabitants helped the family upon their arrival?
Answers:
Preparations and Voyage
Who is the narrator of the story?
The narrator is Gordon Cook, the captain of the boat.
What was the name of the narrator’s boat?
The boat was named Wavewalker.
How long was the boat, Wavewalker?
The boat was 23 meters long.
Why did the family decide to go on this voyage?
They wanted to replicate the round-the-world voyage made 200 years earlier by Captain James Cook.
From which port did the family set sail?
They set sail from Plymouth, England.
How many years did the family spend preparing for the voyage?
They spent 16 years honing their seafaring skills.
Who were the additional crew members taken on in Cape Town?
The additional crew members were Larry Vigil (American) and Herb Seigler (Swiss).
What route was the family following for their voyage?
They were following Captain James Cook’s historic round-the-world route.
Encountering the Storm
Where were they located on December 25, 1976?
They were 3,500 kilometers east of Cape Town.
What did they do to celebrate Christmas at sea?
They celebrated with a Christmas tree and a festive mood despite the rough weather.
What safety measures did the captain take as the storm approached?
Dropped the storm jib to reduce speed.
Lashed a heavy mooring rope across the stern.
Conducted life-raft drills.
Double-lashed everything and donned life jackets.
What was the height of the waves during the storm?
The waves were up to 15 meters high.
What caused the initial damage to the boat?
A massive wave hit the boat, smashing the deck and flooding the interior.
What happened to the captain during the massive wave?
The captain was thrown overboard and injured but was pulled back by his lifeline.
How did the captain regain control of the boat after the wave hit?
He managed to grab the wheel and align the stern of the boat with the waves.
Flooding and Repairs
What items were used to repair the gaping holes in the hull?
Canvas, waterproof hatch covers, screws, and a hammer were used for temporary repairs.
How did the family manage to pump water out of the boat?
They used hand pumps and an electric pump to remove water.
What problem did they face with the hand pumps?
The hand pumps got blocked by debris floating inside the cabin.
What did the captain use to create a makeshift sea anchor?
He used a heavy nylon rope and two 22-liter plastic barrels of paraffin.
Why couldn’t they hoist the main sail after the damage?
The rigging was too fragile, and the pressure from the sail could have torn the damaged hull apart.
Family and Crew’s Resilience
How did Suzanne react to her injuries?
She remained calm and didn’t complain, saying she didn’t want to worry her parents.
What did Jonathan say when he asked if they were going to die?
He said, “We aren’t afraid of dying if we can all be together.”
How did the children demonstrate bravery during the ordeal?
They stayed calm, reassured their parents, and avoided burdening them with their fears or injuries.
What role did Larry and Herb play in the crew’s survival?
They worked tirelessly to pump water out of the boat and assist with repairs.
What motivated the captain to continue fighting the storm?
His children’s courage and their faith in him inspired him to keep going.
Rescue and Aftermath
How did the captain calculate their position to find Ile Amsterdam?
He used a spare compass, a sextant, and calculations based on wind speeds, drift, and currents.
What did Suzanne create to cheer up the captain?
She made a card with funny drawings and a heartfelt message of love and hope.
How did Jonathan describe his father after spotting the island?
He called him “the best daddy in the whole world and the best captain.”
What kind of island was Ile Amsterdam?
It was a bleak volcanic island with little vegetation but appeared beautiful to the desperate crew.
How many inhabitants helped the family upon their arrival?
The island had 28 inhabitants who cheered and assisted them ashore.
