Brad Matsen Books

Exploring the groundbreaking deep-sea expeditions of Otis Barton and William Beebe, this narrative highlights their unique partnership—Beebe's naturalist expertise and media influence combined with Barton's engineering skills and adventurous spirit. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the book chronicles their historic achievement of directly observing life in the ocean's depths, marking a significant milestone in exploration and science. Their journey reflects both personal ambition and the quest for knowledge in uncharted territories.

An unprecedented and masterfully told biography of Jacques Cousteau that reveals for the first time the fascinating and compelling individual behind this famous television personality. Inventor of the aqualung and fearless scuba diver, Jacques Cousteau opened up the ocean to a mass audience for the first time. Here, with the cooperation of many of the subjects closest confidants and family, Brad Matsen makes clear the full picture of his remarkable life, showing the father, military man, inventor, entrepreneur, and adventurer behind the public face. Vividly conveying the people, the science, and the lure of the sea that shaped Cousteau's life, Matsen paints a luminous portrait of a man who profoundly changed the way we live on our planet.

The book delves into the vibrant and challenging life of modern fishermen in Alaska, showcasing a range of firsthand accounts from various fishing vessels, including crabbers and longliners. It captures the highs and lows of fishing experiences, from thrilling catches to harsh weather conditions. The narrative is enriched with stories from iconic fishing towns like Dutch Harbor and Kodiak, painting a vivid picture of both the struggles and joys of life on the water. The tales have even inspired reality TV crews to explore the crabbing seasons in Alaska.