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47 pages 1 hour read

Shadow Divers

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Robert Kurson

Shadow Divers

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New Jersey Coast • 1990s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Shadow Divers recounts how John Chatterton and Richie Kohler, deep-sea divers, discovered a mysterious World War II German U-boat off the coast of New Jersey in 1991 and embarked on a challenging journey to identify it, facing dangerous underwater conditions, bureaucratic hurdles, legal threats, and personal and professional challenges in the process. Topics include extreme risks and death such as drowning, decompression sickness, and narcosis.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Gritty

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.5

37,806 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for Robert Kurson's Shadow Divers highlight its gripping narrative and well-researched historical context, making it a compelling read for both adventure enthusiasts and history buffs. Critics praise the vivid character portrayals and immersive storytelling. However, some readers feel that the technical diving details can be overwhelming. Overall, it's a thrilling account that brings a fascinating true story to life.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shadow Divers?

A reader who enjoys Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson would likely be captivated by thrilling true stories, maritime history, and adventurous pursuits. Fans of Jon Krakauer's Into Thin Air or Sebastian Junger's The Perfect Storm will find this book equally engaging, as it blends historical intrigue with personal bravery and exploration.

4.5

37,806 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Robert Kurson

A skilled investigative journalist and storyteller who authored the book, known for crafting compelling narratives that blend history, adventure, and human drama.

An elite diver with a passion for exploration whose journey from a skilled diver to a determined investigator plays a central role in the events described in the story.

A fellow diver whose expertise and passion for maritime history significantly contribute to the team's efforts to solve the mystery of the sunken U-boat.

An enigmatic figure associated with a historical artifact, his presence becomes a focal point for the divers' investigation and represents the human story behind the U-boat's history.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New Jersey Coast • 1990s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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