ReadThe Portobello Bookshop Gift Guide 2025

The Diver and the Cook

Trapped in 102 Feet of Water

Lasse Spang Olsen author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Dived Up Publications

Published:12th Nov '24

Should be back in stock very soon

The Diver and the Cook cover

Following disaster in a storm, a story of courage emerges.

A ship lost. No survivors. A grim recovery mission begins, pushing a team of commercial divers well beyond their comfort zone. Braving treacherous conditions, Nico van Heerden combs the cramped, debris-strewn, zero-visibility Jascon 4 shipwreck alone, searching for any sign of the lost crew.

After several hours of mentally and physically exhausting work, while exploring a small, isolated compartment deep inside the confusing upturned wreck, Nico feels a tap on his shoulder. How could someone have survived underwater for over sixty hours?

The Diver & the Cook is the incredible true story of a seemingly impossible underwater rescue. Told first-hand, with authentic images and detailed reconstructions, veteran filmmaker Lasse Spang Olsen brings this gripping tale to life.

The book is a testament to the unwavering determination of the human spirit as Harrison Okene, the galley chef, fights for survival after his ship goes down. Meanwhile, rookie saturation diver Nico faces a daunting challenge: leading the rescue mission in a perilous underwater environment. With time running out, what rules must the dive team break to save Harrison before it's too late?

Experience the suspenseful rescue operation narrated by the heroes themselves. Authentic photos and meticulous reconstructions bring this incredible story of survival against all odds to life.

A gripping and unprecedented rescue operation, this story provides a unique perspective on the dangers and challenges faced by divers, showing the importance of teamwork and communication in high-risk situations.

'A "book of the moment"... An exciting and emotional read, and Olsen has made it an easy one... This breath-taking story is well worth the relatively short time it will take you to read.'-- Divernet.com

'Absolutely gripping... a very well-crafted, accurate account of an improbable rescue that deserves far more recognition than it originally received - and is well worth a read.'-- DIVE magazine

'Fascinating non-fiction... gripping and scary... a story worthy of Harrison's perseverance and the miracle of his saving.'-- Undercurrent.org

'Wow! What a story... It's not only a story that will touch the hearts of divers but is also a great read for anyone who has not been to or under the sea at all.'- Scubaverse.com

ISBN: 9781909455610

Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 11mm

Weight: 350g

176 pages