Leave the shore behind and immerse yourself in tales where rowing’s rhythm beats with every stroke.
Discover the determination of Olympians and the introspections of seasoned scullers in our selection of rowing literature, guiding you through the sport’s most moving stories.
Prepare to navigate the waters with the greatest rowing narratives ever compiled.
Best Rowing Books:
- The Boys in the Boat – Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
- Assault on Lake Casitas
- The Amateurs – The Story of Four Young Men and Their Quest for an Olympic Gold Medal
- The Shell Game – Reflections on Rowing and the Pursuit of Excellence
- Rowing Against the Current – On Learning to Scull at Forty
- The Red Rose Crew – A True Story of Women, Winning, and the Water
- Mind Over Water – Lessons on Life from the Art of Rowing
Table of Contents
- #1 The Boys in the Boat – Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
- #2 Assault on Lake Casitas
- #3 The Amateurs – The Story of Four Young Men and Their Quest for an Olympic Gold Medal
- #4 The Shell Game – Reflections on Rowing and the Pursuit of Excellence
- #5 Rowing Against the Current – On Learning to Scull at Forty
- #6 The Red Rose Crew – A True Story of Women, Winning, and the Water
- #7 Mind Over Water – Lessons on Life from the Art of Rowing
- FAQ
#1 The Boys in the Boat – Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
- ✍️ Author: Daniel James Brown
- 📆 Year Published: 2013
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies, History, Youth and High School Rowing
Embark on an incredible journey with “The Boys in the Boat,” a New York Times bestselling tale that captures the essence of determination, teamwork, and the spirit of competition through the eyes of nine working-class American boys.
These young men from the University of Washington rowing team overcome insurmountable odds on their quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Daniel James Brown meticulously weaves their hardships and collective resilience into a narrative that is as inspiring as it is thrilling, providing a poignant reminder of the human capacity for greatness.
#2 Assault on Lake Casitas
- ✍️ Author: Brad Alan Lewis
- 📆 Year Published: 1985
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
In “Assault on Lake Casitas,” Olympic gold medalist Brad Alan Lewis recounts the grueling journey to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This autobiographical tale captures not only the physical strain of his underdog quest but also the internal battles he faced.
His gritty and honest prose exposes the stark realities behind elite rowing competitions, making it a gripping read for those interested in the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of Olympic glory.
#3 The Amateurs – The Story of Four Young Men and Their Quest for an Olympic Gold Medal
- ✍️ Author: David Halberstam
- 📆 Year Published: 1985
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies, History
“The Amateurs” showcases Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Halberstam’s foray into the world of competitive rowing, chronicling the lives of four ambitious rowers vying for the gold.
This intimate look into the struggles, dreams, and commitment required to excel in the sport provides a compelling narrative that resonates far beyond the confines of rowing.
#4 The Shell Game – Reflections on Rowing and the Pursuit of Excellence
- ✍️ Author: Stephen Kiesling
- 📆 Year Published: 1982
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
With “The Shell Game,” Stephen Kiesling offers a candid memoir that delves deep into the world of rowing and the endless quest for perfection.
As a former Olympic rower, Kiesling provides an insider perspective filled with rich anecdotes and philosophical musings about the elegant and demanding sport of crew.
#5 Rowing Against the Current – On Learning to Scull at Forty
- ✍️ Author: Barry Strauss
- 📆 Year Published: 1999
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
Barry Strauss’s “Rowing Against the Current” is an enlightening account of the author’s late introduction to the art of sculling.
This reflective and often humorous narrative documents Strauss’s transformation through the lessons he learns on the water, offering insights that resonate with any reader who has ever dared to pursue a newfound passion later in life.
#6 The Red Rose Crew – A True Story of Women, Winning, and the Water
- ✍️ Author: Daniel J. Boyne
- 📆 Year Published: 2000
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
“The Red Rose Crew” delivers a riveting account of the 1975 women’s rowing team and their unexpected journey to the World Rowing Championships.
Written by Daniel J. Boyne, this story of triumph and trailblazing illuminates the incredible tenacity of these athletes who paved the way for women in rowing, fighting not only to compete but to gain the respect their efforts deserved.
#7 Mind Over Water – Lessons on Life from the Art of Rowing
- ✍️ Author: Craig Lambert
- 📆 Year Published: 1999
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
Craig Lambert’s “Mind Over Water” delves into the metaphysical connection between rowing and living.
Blending lyrical prose with personal anecdotes, Lambert explores the meditative quality of the sport and the philosophical life lessons gleaned from his time on the water. It’s an introspective read that both rowers and non-rowers can savor.
FAQ
What are the best Rowing books of all time?
“The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown, “Assault on Lake Casitas” by Brad Alan Lewis, “The Amateurs” by David Halberstam, “The Shell Game” by Stephen Kiesling, and “Mind Over Water” by Craig Lambert are the best Rowing books of all time. They capture the essence of the sport, its history, and personal triumphs.
What is the best Rowing book for adults?
“The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown is the best Rowing book for adults, depicting an inspirational story of the 1936 U.S. Olympic crew team and their quest for gold.
What are the best books for Rowing fundamentals and strategy?
“Rowing Faster” by Volker Nolte and “The Complete Guide to Indoor Rowing” by Jim Flood are the best books for Rowing fundamentals and strategy, providing thorough coaching advice and technical expertise.
