JAMES BEARD AWARD WINNER • Over 90 delicious, deeply personal recipes that tell the story of Puerto Rico's Stateside diaspora from the United States' first Puerto Rican food columnist, award-winning writer Illyanna Maisonet. “A delicious journey through purpose, place, and the power of food that you won’t want to miss.”—José Andrés, chef, cookbook author, and founder of World Central KitchenONE OF THE TEN BEST COOKBOOKS OF THE YEAR: Simply RecipesONE OF THE BEST COOKBOOKS OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Saveur, Smithsonian Magazine, Delish, Vice Illyanna Maisonet spent years documenting her family’s Puerto Rican recipes and preserving the island’s disappearing foodways through rigorous, often bilingual research. In Diasporican, she shares over 90 recipes, some of which were passed down from her grandmother and mother—classics such as Tostones, Pernil, and Arroz con Gandules, as well as Pinchos with BBQ Guava Sauce, Rabbit Fricassee with Chayote, and Flan de Queso. In this visual record of Puerto Rican food, ingredients, and techniques, Illyanna traces the island’s flavor traditions to the Taino, Spanish, African, and even United States' cultures that created it. These dishes, shaped by geography, immigration, and colonization, reflect the ingenuity and diversity of their people. Filled with travel and food photography, Diasporican reveals how food connects us to family, history, conflict, and migration. Read more

Whether you want to stroll the atmospheric streets of Old San Juan, lounge on the island's beautiful beaches, or escape to Vieques or Culebra, the local Fodor's travel experts in Puerto Rico are here to help! Fodor's Puerto Rico guidebook is packed with maps, carefully curated recommendations, and everything else you need to simplify your trip-planning process and make the most of your time. This new edition has been fully-redesigned with an easy-to-read layout, fresh information, and beautiful color photos. Fodor's Puerto Rico travel guide includes:AN ILLUSTRATED ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES GUIDE to the top things to see and doMULTIPLE ITINERARIES to effectively organize your days and maximize your timeMORE THAN 25 DETAILED MAPS and a FREE PULL-OUT MAP to help you navigate confidentlyCOLOR PHOTOS throughout to spark your wanderlust!HONEST RECOMMENDATIONS FROM LOCALS on the best sights, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, shopping, performing arts, activities, side-trips, and morePHOTO-FILLED “BEST OF” FEATURES on “Best Beaches,” “Best Things to Eat and Drink,” “Best Souvenirs to Buy,” and moreTRIP-PLANNING TOOLS AND PRACTICAL TIPS including when to go, getting around, beating the crowds, and saving time and moneyHISTORICAL AND CULTURAL INSIGHTS providing rich context on the local people, politics, art, architecture, cuisine, music, geography, and moreSPECIAL FEATURES on “Walking Old San Juan,” “Salsa,” and “Puerto Rico's Bioluminescent Bays” LOCAL WRITERS to help you find the under-the-radar gemsSPANISH LANGUAGE PRIMER with useful words and essential phrasesUP-TO-DATE COVERAGE ON: San Juan, El Yunque National Forest, Vieques, Culebra, Mayaguëz, Ponce, Rincón, San Germán, and morePlanning on visiting the Caribbean? Check out Fodor's Essential Caribbean, Fodor's In Focus Turks & Caicos, Fodor's In Focus Aruba, Fodor's Bahamas, Fodor's Bermuda, and more.*Important note for digital editions: The digital edition of this guide does not contain all the images or text included in the physical edition.ABOUT FODOR'S AUTHORS: Each Fodor's Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts. Fodor's has been offering expert advice for all tastes and budgets for over 80 years. For more travel inspiration, you can sign up for our travel newsletter at fodors.com/newsletter/signup, or follow us @FodorsTravel on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We invite you to join our friendly community of travel experts at fodors.com/community to ask any other questions and share your experience with us! Read more

Lonely Planet's Puerto Rico is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for popular and lesser-known experiences. Follow Old San Juan's labyrinthine laneways, laze on the sand at Playa Flamenco, or kayak into the bioluminescent bay at Vieques; all with your trusted travel companion.Inside Lonely Planet's Puerto Rico Travel Guide:Lonely Planet's Top Picks - a visually inspiring collection of the destination's best experiences and where to have themItineraries help you build the ultimate trip based on your personal needs and interestsLocal insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - whether it's history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, politicsEating and drinking - get the most out of your gastronomic experience as we reveal the regional dishes and drinks you have to tryToolkit - all of the planning tools for solo travelers, LGBTQIA+ travelers, family travelers and accessible travelColor maps and images throughoutLanguage - essential phrases and language tipsInsider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spotsCovers San Juan, El Yunque, Luquillo, Fajardo, Culebra, Vieques, Ponce, Arroyo, Guayama, Pozuelo, Rincon, Mayaguez, Manati, Arecibo, Dorado, Caguas, Bosque Estatal de Carite and moreAbout Lonely Planet:Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures Company, is the world's number one travel guidebook brand. Providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveler since 1973, Lonely Planet reaches hundreds of millions of travelers each year online and in print and helps them unlock amazing experiences. Visit us at lonelyplanet.com and join our community of followers on Facebook (facebook.com/lonelyplanet), Twitter (@lonelyplanet), Instagram (instagram.com/lonelyplanet), and TikTok (@lonelyplanet).'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveler's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.'  Fairfax Media (Australia)   Read more

Did you know that Puerto Rico is home to the world's brightest bioluminescent bay, Mosquito Bay, on the island of Vieques? Here, the water glows brilliantly at night due to the presence of tiny, light-emitting microorganisms, creating a magical and surreal experience for visitors.If this topic interests you and your little one then get ready for some fun and giggles.It is hard to find the time to teach your child about the world around them. Luckily, in 50 Facts About Puerto Rico, we've made it easy. Our book contains a diverse selection of the most interesting facts about Puerto Rico that will provide your child with hours of bonding and exploring.What you will find in our book:High-quality illustrationsInteresting Facts about Puerto RicoThis book also provides travel tips and places that are useful for your trip, and you will learn all about that country.Perfect for homeschooling, language development and for school holidaysSo what are you waiting for? Get your little kid a copy today! Read more

Escape to Paradise without Breaking the BankUnleash Your Wanderlust with Shoestring Budget Adventures in Puerto Rico!Want a sure way to pick activities that are worth the hype? Say goodbye to compromising authenticity for affordability. Our guide shows you how to embrace the heart and soul of Puerto Rico and say goodbye to mediocre activities that hijack your hard-earned vacation time.This book offers a fresh perspective focusing on locations under $20 per person with many FREE, offering unique budget-friendly experiences that aren't in the other guides.All the other guides show you the same tourist traps over and over. Discover Puerto Rico in a whole new light. This guide has hidden gems that have even surprised locals who thought they had "seen it all."Picky Eater? Don't let Puerto Rican food get lost in translation.We showcase the "must-experience" foods with a complete description & color photo so you can feast on the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico without fear.Want to explore but afraid to get lost? Detailed directions and parking tips are included so you can feel comfortable exploring without worry.BUCKET LIST ON A BUDGET: Immerse yourself in Puerto Rico's vibrant culture with budget-friendly activities that showcase the island's unique spirit. From rainforest hikes to beachside bliss, set out on unforgettable experiences without worrying about a hefty price tagBE PREPARED: Gain insider tips, history, facts, and geography, ensuring you are ready to soak in the best of Puerto Rico when you arrive.VISUAL INSPIRATION: Ignite your wanderlust with vibrant color photos capturing the beauty and allure of Puerto Rican destinations.LOCAL INSIGHTS, REAL RECOMMENDATIONS: All activities are highly rated based on verified reviews and referrals from real people, not sponsored by corporations.SMART TRIP PLANNING: Practical tips, including the best times to go, cost-effective transportation, and crowd-beating strategies.We understand that planning a trip seems overwhelming. Simplify the planning process; we've done all the work for you.If you want to uncover the secrets to affordable and unforgettable adventures in Puerto Rico, then scroll up and click the "Add to Cart" button now! Read more

An unbeatable, pocket-sized guide to Puerto Rico, packed with insider tips and ideas, colour maps, top 10 lists, and a laminated pull-out map - all designed to help you see the very best of Puerto Rico.Marvel at grand Castillo de San Cristóbal, hike through El Yunque tropical rainforest, enjoy white sand beaches and coral reefs on Culebra, or wander colonial Old San Juan, the historic heart of the capital. From Top 10 beaches to the Top 10 festivals and holidays - discover the best of Puerto Rico with this easy-to-use travel guide.Inside Top 10 Puerto Rico:- Easy-to-follow itineraries to help you make the most of your trip- Top 10 lists showcase Puerto Rico''s best attractions, covering Condado, Vieques, Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy and many more- Free laminated pull-out map of Puerto Rico, plus six colour neighbourhood maps- In-depth neighbourhood guides explore Puerto Rico''s most interesting areas, with the best places for shopping, going out and sightseeing - Colour-coded chapters divided by area make it easy to find information quickly and plan your day - Essential travel tips including our expert choices of where to stay, eat, shop and sightsee, plus useful transport, visa and health information- Colour maps help you navigate with ease- Covers San Juan, the North, South, East and West Coasts, the Cordillera and moreStaying for longer as part of a bigger trip to the Caribbean? Try our DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Caribbean.About DK Eyewitness Travel: DK''s Top 10 guides take the work out of planning a short trip, with easy-to-read maps, tips and tours to inform and enrich your weekend trip or cultural break. DK is the world''s leading illustrated reference publisher, producing beautifully designed books for adults and children in over 120 countries. Read more

Puerto Rico Travel Guide 2025 (Full-color): Exploring Paradise Navigating the Island's Most Exciting ExperiencesFrom the moment I arrived in Puerto Rico, I was captivated by its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the warmth of its people. This full-color travel guide is your ultimate companion to uncovering the island's most thrilling experiences and hidden gems.As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers the convenience of no passport requirements for U.S. citizens, yet immerses you in a unique blend of Spanish and American influences. Wander through the colorful streets of Old San Juan, relax on pristine beaches, and savor the island's diverse culinary delights.Inside this guide, you'll find:✅ Must-See Attractions: Explore historic sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the vibrant streets of Old San Juan.✅ Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discover the bioluminescent bays of Vieques and the art scene in Santurce.✅ Outdoor Adventures: Hike through El Yunque National Forest, surf at Rincón, and kayak in glowing bioluminescent waters.✅ Cultural Highlights: Experience local festivals, traditional music, and savor dishes like mofongo and fresh seafood.✅ Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip: Learn the best times to visit, transportation options, and essential travel advice.Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to unwind on beautiful beaches, this guide offers something for every traveler. Join me in exploring the magic and allure of Puerto Rico with this indispensable travel companion.🌴 Ready to embark on your Puerto Rican adventure? Let's explore this enchanting island together! Read more

The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is the permanent or migratory home of over 350 species of birds, 17 of which are endemic. This beautifully illustrated Spanish/English guide highlights over 100 familiar and unique species and includes a map featuring prominent bird-viewing areas. Translated by noted aquatic and ecological scientist Dr. Jorge Bauza-Ortega, this guide is a useful "take-along" guide that introduces local names of the species along with information on key distinguishing features. Laminated for durability, this lightweight, pocket-sized, 12-panel folding guide is an excellent source of portable information and ideal for field use by visitors and residents alike. Made in the USA. Read more

"To truly understand the United States, one must understand the 'not-quite states of America." ―Mark Stein, best-selling author of How the States Got Their ShapesEveryone knows that America is 50 states and…some other stuff. Scattered shards in the Pacific and the Caribbean, the not-quite states―American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands―and their 4 million people are often forgotten, even by most Americans. But they’re filled with American flags, U.S. post offices, and Little League baseball games. How did these territories come to be part of the United States? What are they like? And why aren’t they states?When Doug Mack realized just how little he knew about the territories, he set off on a globe-hopping quest covering more than 30,000 miles to see them all. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mack examines the Founding Fathers’ arguments over expansion. He explores Polynesia’s outsize influence on American culture, from tiki bars to tattoos, in American Samoa. He tours Guam with members of a military veterans’ motorcycle club, who offer personal stories about the territory’s role in World War II and its present-day importance for the American military. In the Northern Mariana Islands, he learns about star-guided seafaring from one of the ancient tradition’s last practitioners. And everywhere he goes in Puerto Rico, he listens in on the lively debate over political status―independence, statehood, or the status quo.The Not-Quite States of America is an entertaining account of the territories’ place in the USA, and it raises fascinating questions about the nature of empire. As Mack shows, the territories aren’t mere footnotes to American history; they are a crucial part of the story. Read more

With this 2nd edition, Speaking Boricua, a bestseller in Puerto Rico since 2005, continues to be the most complete, up-to-date collection of Puerto Rican slang available, featuring more than 2,100 words and phrases explained in English including example sentences. With 30 humorous cartoon illustrations, this book also includes sections on Puerto Rican gestures, pronunciation, and grammar.Quick reference sections help language enthusiasts and travelers alike learn all about Puerto Rican food, drinks, money, the body, clothing, and key words found in the daily spoken language.This book is indispensable for anyone with ties to Puerto Rico, whether you are learning Spanish or a native speaker!IS THIS BOOK FOR ME? This bilingual book contains words that are not appropriate for kids. If you are just starting to learn Spanish, this book is best used as a complementary reference source to any program or class designed to teach you Spanish. This book and the other books of the Speaking Latino series are not designed as stand-alone learning aids, to teach you Spanish. Instead, they expand your country-specific Spanish vocabulary. If you already speak Spanish, this book help you understand local Spanish from Puerto Rico. Be sure to use the Amazon Look Inside function to see what this book will and will not teach. Read more

Relax beneath palm trees, kayak through bioluminescent bays, or dance the night away to the sounds of salsa: Experience the Island of Enchantment with Moon Puerto Rico. Inside you'll find: Flexible itineraries to visit the best of Puerto Rico in a week or less, including San Juan, the mountains, neighboring islands, and more Strategic advice for beach-lovers, adventure travelers, honeymooners, and more, with the best beaches for surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving The best spots for eco-friendly outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and spelunking. Zipline over the lush jungle, hike through cloud forests, explore vast underground caves, learn how to surf, or spot iguanas on the wild island of Mona Unique and authentic experiences: Visit a historic coffee hacienda, shop for hand-rolled cigars along San Juan's cobblestone streets, and savor a traditional lunch of mofongo. Visit ancient ceremonial bateyes and learn about Puerto Rico's indigenous Taíno communities. Enjoy an al fresco dinner in the warm tropical breeze and dance to bomba as the sun sets over the ocean Insider insight from Suzanne Van Atten on how to experience the island like a local, respectfully engage with the culture, and support local businesses Full-color photos and detailed maps throughoutUp-to-date information on Puerto Rico's landscape, history, customs, and environmental changes Handy tools including a Spanish phrasebook, driving directions, and travel tips for disability access, women travelers, traveling with children, travelers of color, and LGBTQ travelers Experience the best of Puerto Rico with Moon's practical tips and local know-how. Exploring the Caribbean? Check out Moon Dominican Republic, Moon Bahamas, or Moon Jamaica.   About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.  For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.  Read more

This Spanish Coloring Book for Kids will help you introduce Puerto Rico IN SPANISH in an EASY, FUN, and FAST way. It is designed to help children learn about the wonderful Puerto Rico!This bilingual English-Spanish color and learn book is packed with friendly illustrations of the island's key local and cultural features, including location, national flag, landscape, traditions and more. Pages include both the Spanish word and English translation for the images.This coloring book is suitable for kids aged 3 to 8. With this book you can keep your child entertained while they learn Spanish vocabulary. It also makes a great educational gift for holidays, birthdays, Christmas, Easter, and many other occasions.In this fantastic book you will find:High quality pages designed to entertain the little ones while they learn Spanish.Kid-friendly illustrations and activities about Puerto Rico’s location, culture, and other key highlights.Useful vocabulary and main highlights of the Spanish speaking island and their culture.Pick up this entertaining Spanish coloring book for your child. Interested in introducing your child and learning more about other Spanish Speaking countries? See our other coloring books for kids. Read more

The acquisition of Puerto Rico as a colony in 1898 prompted the interest of many in the United States—the military, correspondents, investors, missionaries, politicians, scientists, and tourists. Wanting to know more about Puerto Rico, its inhabitants, and its potential utility, many of these curious but untrained observers visited the island and documented their experiences for the benefit of future visitors. Decades later, readers continue to revisit these writings and create new accounts that explore the “effects of American civilization” on Puerto Rican society. In Us According to Them: Stateside Portrayals of Puerto Ricans and Their Culture, 1898-2010, Puerto Rican historian Ligia T. Domenech exposes the distorted mirror turned on Puerto Rico, one constructed through the eyes of foreigners. Each of the eighteen chapters focuses on a different aspect of mainland US descriptions of Puerto Rican culture—from gender, race, and class to music, religion, and food. Accurate or not, books on Puerto Rico have contained perceptions about Puerto Ricans and their world that continue to shape opinions held by US citizens dwelling stateside. This book explores the lasting impacts of these repeated stereotypes on the collective understandings of both the colonizer and the colonized. Read more

From the late eighteenth century until about 1840, schoolgirls in the British Isles and the United States created embroidered map samplers and even silk globes. Hundreds of British maps were made and although American examples are more rare, they form a significant collection of artefacts. Descriptions of these samplers stated that they were designed to teach needlework and geography. The focus of this book is not on stitches and techniques used in 'drafting' the maps, but rather why they were developed, how they diffused from the British Isles to the United States, and why they were made for such a brief time. The events of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries stimulated an explosion of interest in geography. The American and French Revolutions, the wars between France and England, the War of 1812, Captain Cook's voyages, and the explorations of Lewis and Clark made the study of places exciting and important. Geography was the first science taught to girls in school. This period also coincided with major changes in educational theories and practices, especially for girls, and this book uses needlework maps and globes to chart a broader discussion of women's geographic education. In this light, map samplers and embroidered globes represent a transition in women's education from 'accomplishments' in the eighteenth century to challenging geographic education and conventional map drawing in schools and academies of the second half of the nineteenth century. There has been little serious study of these maps by cartographers and, moreover, historians of cartography have largely neglected the role of women in mapping. Children's maps have not been studied, although they might have much to offer about geographical teaching and perceptions of a period, and map samplers have been dismissed because they are the work of schoolgirls. Needlework historians, likewise, have not done in depth studies of map samplers until recently. Stitching the World is an interdisciplinary work drawing on cartography, needlework, and material culture. This book for the first time provides a critical analysis of these artefacts, showing that they offer significant insights into both eighteenth- and nineteenth-century geographic thought and cartography in the USA and the UK and into the development of female education. Read more

Puerto Rico Travel Guide 2025: Your Ultimate Island Escape Awaits!Sun-drenched beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and rich history—experience the magic of Puerto Rico like never before!From the colorful streets of Old San Juan to the pristine shores of Flamenco Beach, from the mystical glow of bioluminescent bays to the rugged trails of El Yunque National Forest, this guide takes you on an unforgettable journey through Puerto Rico’s most breathtaking destinations. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Puerto Rico Travel Guide 2025 is your essential companion for an extraordinary trip.What You’ll Experience in This Guide:✅ The Best Beaches & Hidden Coastal Gems – Lounge on Isla Verde, surf in Rincón, or escape to the secluded shores of Vieques and Culebra.✅ Must-See Attractions & Local Hotspots – Discover the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, explore Ponce’s historic district, and dive into the nightlife of Condado and Santurce.✅ Adventure & Outdoor Activities – Hike through El Yunque National Forest, kayak in Mosquito Bay, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or take a scenic road trip along the island’s coastline.✅ Authentic Food & Drinks – Indulge in mofongo, lechón asado, tostones, and the finest Piña Coladas at hidden local spots and top-rated restaurants.✅ Insider Tips & Expert Recommendations – Find the best places to stay, how to get around, local customs, and money-saving tips to make the most of your trip.Why This Guide is a Must-Have for Your Puerto Rico Adventure:📍 Updated for 2025 – The latest information on hotels, tours, transportation, and local events.📍 Curated Itineraries – Whether you have three days, a week, or more, find the perfect trip plan.📍 Local Insights & Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences – Go beyond tourist spots and uncover Puerto Rico’s hidden treasures.📍 Practical Travel Tips – Safety advice, best times to visit, packing lists, and essential cultural etiquette.Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you experience the soul of Puerto Rico like never before.📖 Grab Your Copy Today and Start Planning Your Ultimate Caribbean Adventure! Read more

History of Puerto Rico offers a journey into the island’s rich, complex history, exploring the cultural, political, and economic forces that shaped Puerto Rico from its indigenous roots to modern times. Authored by Alex Alicea, this book unveils the evolution of the island, highlighting the resilience and spirit of its people through colonization, slavery, revolts, and struggles for autonomy.Readers with an interest in Caribbean history, colonial dynamics, or the heritage of Puerto Rico will find themselves captivated by the detailed explorations of each historical period. From the legacy of the Taíno, the devastation brought by colonization, to Puerto Rico’s strategic role in global power struggles, History of Puerto Rico ignites a desire to understand the deeper narratives of an island often overlooked in mainstream historical texts.The book covers key historical moments, such as the arrival of Columbus, the impact of the encomienda system, the rise of sugar plantations, African enslavement, and the political turbulence of the Spanish-American War. Readers will appreciate how it seamlessly weaves the stories of notable figures like Agüeybaná II, Ponce de León, and later activists and leaders in the nationalist and political movements. The historical journey extends to Puerto Rico’s current political status as a U.S. territory, offering insights into the ongoing debate about its future.This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand Puerto Rico’s past and present. Whether you are a student, history enthusiast, or curious about Caribbean culture, History of Puerto Rico will provide the depth of knowledge and perspective necessary to appreciate the island’s significant contributions to world history. Grab your copy today to dive into the compelling saga of Puerto Rico’s history, identity, and ongoing fight for self-determination. Read more

In need of an escape? Dive into the vibrant world of the Caribbean with Tropical Getaways coloring book, featuring 40 bold and easy unique designs inspired by the tropical paradise of Puerto Rico. Experience firsthand why it's known as La Isla Del Encanto (the Island of Enchantment).From lush rainforests to sun-kissed beaches, exotic animals and more, immerse yourself in the essence of this captivating island as you bring each scene to life with your own palette of colors. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, Tropical Getaways offers a delightful journey through the beauty and charm of Puerto Rico, making it the perfect companion for relaxation and creativity.Why you’ll love Tropical Getaways coloring book:40 handmade bold and easy designsFun and relaxing entertainment for both adults and kidsSingle-sided pages for coloring with easeEach page invites you to escape to the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico Read more

Patience, persistence, and the most unlikely of circumstances vaulted Edgar Martinez from a poor neighborhood in Dorado, Puerto Rico to the spotlight in Seattle, where he spent the entirety of his 18-year major league career with the Mariners. At last, his path is destined for one last stop: the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.Long before he cemented his status as one of the finest players of his generation, Martinez honed his batting skills by hitting rocks in his backyard and swinging for hours at individual raindrops during storms. Loyal and strong-willed from a young age, he made the difficult decision at only 11 to remain behind with his grandparents while his family relocated to New York, attending school and then working multiple jobs until a chance Mariners try-out at age 20 changed everything.In this illuminating, highly personal autobiography, Martinez shares these stories and more with candor, characteristic humility, and surprising wit. Highlights include the memorable 1995 and 2001 seasons, experiences playing with stars like Randy Johnson, Ken Griffey Jr., and Alex Rodriguez, and life after retirement as a family man, social advocate, and Mariners hitting coach. Martinez even offers practical insight into the mental side of baseball and his training regimen, detailing how he taught himself to see the ball better than so many before and after him.Interwoven with Martinez’s own words throughout are those of his teammates, coaches, and contemporaries, contributing a distinctive oral history element to this saga of a remarkable career. Read more

“It was the best of dreams, it was the worst of dreams, it was an age of consulting the nautical experts, it was the age of landlubber foolishness, it was the epoch of determination, it was the epoch of despair, it was the season of hurricanes, it was a spring of beachcombing…”If you dream about chucking it all away and sailing toward an island life, read this firstRenee and Michael didn’t have any boating experience and when their plans to remedy that fell through the two had to learn everything the hard way. Despite themselves they managed to get from Miami to Grenada, eventually dropping the anchor of their cruising catamaran at the island of their dreams. Determined to save future sailors from themselves, A Sail of Two Idiots includes lessons Renee and Michael learned and shares them with you as examples of what and what not to do. This a how-to guide wrapped in a funny story―kind of like getting your serving of vegetables from a slice of pizza. Read this and make your dream of sailing away a reality. Includes:“What Broke?” sections explores the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of a cruising multihull"Island” section provide assessments of the islands of the Caribbean Read more