Three books in progress at the same time. How the heck did that happen? Fortunately, I am unlikely to get them confused.
David C. Holly, Chesapeake Steamboats: The Vanished Fleet. A history of steam navigation on Chesapeake Bay, beginning with the technological marvels of the early 19th Century. Holly details the advances in engineering and cutthroat competition of the early steamboat lines. Notable steamboat wrecks are covered, up to the 1991-92 discovery and recovery of the engine of Columbus, built in 1828 and wrecked in 1850. Steamboats played a prominent role in the Civil War, including the capture of a Baltimore steamer by Confederate raider Richard. Zarvona, aka “The French Lady.” Steamboats were the primary and essential means of passenger and freight transport around the Bay for 150 years, until their demise in the mid-20th Century.
Joshua Hammer, The Falcon Thief: A True Tale of Adventure, Treachery, and the Hunt for the Perfect Bird. In 2010, Jeffrey Lendrum was arrested at a British airport en route to Dubai, with 14 rare peregrine falcon eggs strapped to his body. The book tells the history of falconry in the Middle East, and explains how oil money led to a profitable illegal trade in endangered species.
Garrett and Alexandra Conover, Snow Walker's Companion: Winter Trail Skills from the Far North. Sitting here in Virginia, with 8 inches of snow on the ground and a 25 degree temperature, it's hard to imagine living comfortably in country with 8 feet of snow and a temperature of minus 25. The Conovers tell how to do it, with an emphasis on traditional Native American winter skills and gear. Snowshoes, toboggans, heated tents, and nutritious food are covered. Patterns for anoraks, mukluks, mittens, and tents are included. A highlight of the book is the Conovers' journal of their 58 day, 300 mile winter journey on foot across the Ungava Peninsula.