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Judy McCandless grew up 4 blocks from the sea in Massachusetts with a passion for travel. At 24 she drove to California for adventure. She stayed to marry and advance in government contract administration. For a career break from stress, she left Westinghouse in Silicon Valley to crisscross the Pacific Ocean with her husband in their sailboat. The quest for freedom and a more meaningful life transforms this loner and overachiever into a more compassionate human being. She has over 20,000 miles of sailing adventure, thirty years of sobriety, and now retired, still travels widely.
Reviewed by Amanda Rofe for Readers' Favorite
Workaholics Adrift: Transformation in the Pacific Islands by Judy Martin McCandless is a non-fiction book describing the ambitious sailing trips undertaken by Judy and her husband during their forties. Their yacht, aptly named Renaissance, captures the essence of the radical lifestyle change from their busy working life in corporate America to experienced sailors sailing the high seas, exploring other cultures and lifestyles. Judy struggles with alcohol addiction and this book is as much her personal journey. Judy explains how they managed to fund the trips and the practical aspects of each expedition including carrying out a rather hair-raising trial run. An exciting first chapter provides a taste of some of the issues they face but is no preparation for the conclusion of the book.
Judy Martin McCandless pens a candid portrayal of her life with John, which includes life aboard their sailing boat amounting to an incredible seven years in total. There were some terrifying moments such as when their paths crossed with huge shipping vessels which could crush them in an instant. There were also very poignant moments including the time that Judy saved a man's life and John's illness. The 3000-mile trip across the Pacific Ocean without a cell phone, GPS, internet or email access was impressive and scared me half to death! Workaholics Adrift is an inspiration to those who are thinking about seeking out a more meaningful existence in today's society which places so much emphasis on consumerism and wealth. I was particularly interested to read about other cultures and lifestyles including those of the 'yachties' who live aboard their sailing boats for long periods of time. Those who relish travel books should enjoy this memoir.
