This is possibly one of the wordiest and most detailed books I have ever read, it is taxing and slightly exhausting to read and not one that you can skim read while the ads are on during your favourite programme. However, it is well well well worth the effort of sitting down and focusing on Ishmael, Ahab and the infamous Moby Dick. Melville doesn't just take the reader on a journey of revenge but also through the desire, obsession and madness that takes over not just Ahab but the crew of the Pequod as well as they get closer and closer to their prize. Yes Melville provides lots of extra detail with in depth chapters on all aspects of whales and whaling, from the differences between Sperm Whales and Right Whales and general Cetology to the equipment found on a whaling vessel and how it came around (including a whole chapter on the rope used on board). Despite this (or maybe because of it) you eventually become fully immersed in the story and in the hunt until the climax of the book and the three day chase that has you on the edge of your seat, leaning from the mast-head in search of Moby Dick himself. A superb classic that deserves all the attention you can give it.