This year’s winter book shelf has a number of intriguing volumes piled up plus some other gear.

One thing we islanders all have in common, of course, is boats, and each year I take to the sea with a list of books about boating and sailing.

As winter finally sets in, and the boat is buttoned up and other winter preparations made, it is time to turn inward, to a comfortable chair to catch up on some maritime reading.

As is my habit each year, I’ve collected a group of maritime-themed books for land locked or winter bound mariners who might enjoy reading over the long cold months ahead.

In the last month I’ve traveled by car, ferry, train, taxi, bus and private car to and from Port Townsend, Wash. to visit family.

As I do every year I’ve selected a pile of maritime books which may engage your imagination.