It has been said. "There is nothing more enticing, disenchanting, and enslaving than the life at sea." History and literature have proven this in many ways and Yann Martel's, Life of Pi is no exception. Pi Patel, the protagonist overcomes many challenges spanning from spiritual enlightenment to basic instinct and survival. Coming from an unbiased spiritual background and having a vast understanding of nature and its creatures, Pi is a compassionate and intelligent boy. Like the classical hero quest pattern, Pi is forced into surviving at sea with only animals as companions. It is a long journey filled with danger solitude and uncertainty, but most of all an exploration of faith.

Pi's family runs a zoo in India but flee to Canada (with the animals) because of the unstable political situation. Early in the voyage the ships sinks and all that is left is a life boat containing...