Ellen MacArthur’s long awaited account of her record-setting performance in the 2000-2001 Vendeë Globe is finally available. "Taking on the World" is more than just a book about yacht racing or sailing records. It is the story of a determined young woman’s life, from her childhood in landlocked Derbyshire England, her introduction to sailing at age 4 and the compulsive drive that brought her to the finish line of the Vendeë Globe. MacArthur’s voice reflects honesty, frankness and passion as she writes about the rigours of single-handing a 60’ boat abound the world, the terrors of the Southern Ocean, the relationships that influenced her journey and the intricate logistics of offshore racing. An inspiring and well written addition to any sailor’s library.