Extreme Survival - by Michael Tougias (Paperback)

About the Book

To answer the question of why disasters happen and how some survive, Tougias interviewed over 100 people who survived against all odds, first chronicling their harrowing survival stories, and then discussing in detail the lessons learned. Both an exciting and informative read, this book provides the entertainment and exceptional research fans expect.

Book Synopsis

To answer the question of why disasters happen and how some survive, Tougias interviewed over 100 people who survived against all odds, first chronicling their harrowing survival stories, and then discussing in detail the lessons learned. Both an exciting and informative read, this book provides the entertainment and exceptional research fans expect.

Review Quotes

Praise for Books by Michael J. Tougias

Extreme Survival: Lessons from Those Who Have Triumphed Against All Odds

"Each page is filled with the amazing arc of a human spirit exceeding all bounds, yet returning us, as readers, to what it means to be wholly human, humane, selfless, yet aware of one's self-call it identity, our authentic selves, a grasp of what's meaningful in one's life. Tougias' reporting and storytelling has appeal for armchair adventurers, historians of the extreme, for parents and families, teachers, civic leaders, those in business, and all of us in leadership positions large or small, who ask, 'How do I make the most of this moment?' "
--Doug Stanton, #1 New York Times bestselling author of In Harm's Way and Horse Soldiers

"If you're clinging to a lifeboat, surrounded by sharks (figuratively or literally), what should you think about? Who should you ignore? What are the patterns of mind and heart that have helped Antarctic explorers, soldiers, lobster fishermen, and prisoners of war stay sane--and alive? Michael Tougias converts the wisdom of survivors into advice we can all use to light up the darkness."
--Amanda Ripley, bestselling author of The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes--and Why

"Tougias has chronicled examples of extreme survival in several books over the past 30 years. In researching such stories, Tougias realized it was more than luck that enabled these people to make it out alive."
--The Boston Globe

"He's been keeping files about survivors, along with interview notes from about 70 survivors he interviewed, he explained. He also supplements the survivors he interviewed with survivors from history, from Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton to John McCain to Mary Rowlandson in King Philip's War."
--Cape Cod Times

"[Tougias] combines edge-of-your-seat stories with lessons learned and has a book that is both entertaining and inspiring."
--Wicked Local

The Finest Hours: The True Story of the U.S. Coast Guard's Most Daring Sea Rescue (co-authored with Casey Sherman)

"A blockbuster account of tragedy at sea...gives a 'you-are-there' feel."
--The Providence Journal

"A gripping read!"
--James Bradley, author of Flags of Our Fathers

Overboard! A True Bluewater Odyssey of Disaster and Survival

"A heart-pounding account of the storm that tore apart a forty-five-foot sailboat. Author Michael Tougias is the master of the weather-related disaster book."
--The Boston Globe

"Overboard is a beautiful story deserving of a good cry."
--Gatehouse News Service

"Tougias has a knack for weaving thoroughly absorbing stories--adventure fans need this one!
--Booklist

Fatal Forecast: An Incredible True Tale of Disaster and Survival at Sea

"A passionately recounted peril-at-sea adventure...described with excruciating intensity. A blustery seafarer's delight, rendered with gusto."
--Kirkus Reviews

"Tougias spins a marvelous and terrifying yarn....this is a breathtaking book."
--Los Angeles Times

"Tougias's terrifying tale will stun you...leaving you breathless, exhilarated, and finally amazed."
--The Providence Journal

"Ernie Hazard's experiences, as related by Tougias, deserve a place as a classic of sea survival his