Rowing into the Son

Four Young Men Crossing the North Atlantic

By: Jordan Hanssen

Narrated by: Jordan Hanssen

Length: 7 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

A Daring True Story

"Truly an epic of adventure and perseverance, this is great inspiration for anyone who thinks of someday tackling the impossible." (Clive Cussler, New York Times best-selling author)

On June 10, 2006, four college friends stepped into a 29-foot rowboat as the only American competitors in the first North Atlantic Rowing Race.

From the initial idea and chaotic race planning to heaving through cold ocean swells, author and lead rower Jordan Hansen takes us along as the crew heads out from New York Harbor, racing against three other teams; catches the elusive Gulf Stream current; and makes the final dramatic push for the finish line off the coast of England. Hurricane-level winds, giant ocean eddies, passing freighters, and sharks are all elements of the journey, while the tension on board comes to a head on Day 17—with another 55 days to go when the crew realizes their supplies are running out and they must drastically ration their food.

The race is set against the backdrop of Jordan's own reflections on both his biological father, who passed away many years earlier, and his stepfather. Combined with the details of how he and his teammates cope within the confines of their tiny boat, and their determination to push their limits, it creates a remarkable coming-of-age story—and an intimate account full of thrilling adventure and compelling emotion.

"A beautiful sense of place and a compelling portrait of four men locked in an epic struggle with the ocean and, occasionally; with themselves. Gripping." (Roz Savage, first woman to row three oceans and author of Rowing the Atlantic)

“Too often in our lives we are told what we cannot do. Hanssen's story deftly accomplishes the opposite. It might not catapult you into a rowboat, but be warned; you may be enticed to alter course." (Jill Fredston, author of Rowing to Latitude)

©2012 Jordan Hanssen (P)2023 Jordan Hanssen

Appreciation for the “human-powered vessel”

Jordan’s account of his across the ocean reminded me that there is so much more to “human power” than the physical mechanics of such a feat. I loved hearing how the guys navigated their internal struggles in relation to the external ones. A great look into what it really takes to do big things as a team.

Inspiring and moving

An excellent and detailed account of what it takes to prepare for an ocean row with honest and raw details about the human dynamics involved in taking on a challenge of this magnitude with other people. This book will make you laugh, cry and shout out noises of disgust.

If you are thinking about rowing an ocean, this book is a fantastic opportunity to live vicariously through the learning experiences of Jordan and his crew mates.

If you just love tales of adventure complete with trials and hardship and resilience this is a great read.

I've read the paper copy and most recently listened to the audio book. Jordan has an amazing way with words and his narration of the book adds another level of emotion and emphasis. I highly recommend them both!

An incredible journey

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys traveling or traveling vicariously through others. I would also recommend it to any athlete who can appreciate the mental and physical endurance something like rowing across an ocean takes. There are also great bits of literary references and educational points.
It’s a great book that has something for everyone. The pacing is great and it comes across as honest and transparent. 5 stars!

Loved it.

Jordan clearly has a passion that went into this adventure, bringing it to life in this book.

Beautiful storytelling of adventure and life

A couple of my friends had read and enjoyed this book, so when it came out on audiobook I thought I'd give it a try, and Wow! Jordan Hanssen tells a sweet and exciting story of adventure, with emotional depth that moved me to tears more than once. I particularly appreciated the ways he described the relationship dynamics within the team and with their families on shore. I've not been on a rowing team myself, but I think anyone who has planned or gone on a trip outdoors with friends will find this book interesting and relatable. Not all books read by the author are read so well. Jordan's deep, radio voice added to the experience of this book that made me wish it were longer!

Excitement with raw emotions

An incredible story of 4 young men and their determination and grit as they rowed across the Atlantic. I felt the excitement as they were leaving NY to the fear during storms to the elation as they get close to England-will they get there?