D
Dava Sobel
Dava Sobel is the author behind Prentice Hall Literature, a trusted name for exploring classic and contemporary writing. She has a knack for making literature accessible and engaging for readers.
Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time
Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time
- Pages
- 198
- Published
- 2005
- Language
- English
Synopsis
This book tells the incredible true story of the quest to solve the longitude problem, a challenge that baffled sailors and nations for centuries. It focuses on John Harrison, a brilliant clockmaker who, against all odds and scientific opinion, dedicated forty years to creating a precise sea-going clock. Discover the drama, ingenuity, and even deceit behind this monumental scientific achievement.
Genres
Frequently asked questions
Is Longitude based on a true story?
The book meticulously details the real-life quest of John Harrison, an 18th-century clockmaker, to solve the problem of determining longitude at sea. It is a non-fiction account of historical events and figures.
Is there a film adaptation of Longitude?
Yes, there is a television miniseries adaptation of Longitude. It was produced by Granada Television and first aired in 2000, starring Jeremy Irons and Michael Gambon.
What awards did Longitude win?
Longitude won the British Book of the Year award in 1996. It was also shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction.