"Tauno Biltsted's The Anatomist's Tale is a marvel of knowingness and concision: a tale of piracy on the high seas which steers clear of melodrama (though there's plenty of drama), and opts instead for a rich and surprising account of the society of pirates, and the ocean deserts and island paradises in which they lived. This short book contains a vast world."--Paul La Farge, author of The Night Ocean

"This is a sad story of exile from the English homeland and a salty tale of piracy in the Caribbean, which leads to further adventures on four of the Seven Seas and the discovery of a curious self-governing utopia among Kru, Maya, Irish, Welsh, and scouser maroons in Central America. With all the authenticity of the social historian, Biltsted writes in a swift, beautiful style. These 'confessions' lead to an inevitable destination, leaving the reader pensive, satisfied, and ever willing to lend a hand, hoist a sail, and set out anew." --Peter Linebaugh, author of Red Round Globe Hot Burning