Wide Wide Sea

How does Hampton Sides portray Captain James Cook as both a navigator and a leader throughout his third expedition?

Discuss the significance of Mai's journey from Tahiti to England and back. What does his experience tell us about the cultural exchanges of the era?

What role does the environment of the Pacific play in shaping the events and outcomes of Cook's expedition?

How do the encounters with the indigenous peoples of Hawaii reflect the larger themes of exploration and imperial ambition?

In what ways does the book highlight the challenges of navigation and exploration during the 18th century?

How does the relationship between Captain Cook and Joseph Banks influence the expedition and its outcomes?

What are some pivotal moments in the book that foreshadow the fate of Cook's final voyage?

Explore how Hampton Sides uses primary sources to enhance the narrative. Which documents or testimonials stood out to you?

How does the book address the idea of 'first contact' through Cook’s interactions with the Hawaiian people?

Discuss the portrayal of the ocean as both a character and a setting in the book. How does it drive the narrative?

What were the critical decisions that led to the tragic end of Cook’s final voyage?

How does 'Wide Wide Sea' challenge or reinforce the traditional narratives of exploration and empire?

Examine the portrayal of the crew's morale throughout the voyage. How does it change, and what factors contribute to its decline?

What role does misunderstanding play in the interactions between Cook's crew and the Hawaiian people, leading to the expedition's final conflict?

Reflect on the legacy of Captain Cook as presented in the book. How does it compare to your previous understanding of his voyages?