Chesapeake Requiem

An illuminating examination of the island and people of Tangier Island, VA. Without going into the details, I do admit that although I found the book interesting, well-written, and often compelling, I also think that it paints a less than flattering picture of the inhabitants who cling to a way of life that is literally disappearing around them. Although some will find their resolute determination to pursue their life in the Chesapeake crab grounds and oyster beds admirable, others will see their unforgiving piety and deliberate blindness as arrogant and repugnant. Worth reading? Definitely. Don't be surprised if you end the book with no sympathy for the inhabitants of the island which is swiftly becoming an archipelago before it sinks into the bay, perhaps ironically to host new generations of the blue crabs that they make their livelihood.