The Hungry Ocean is about the ability of the captain and crew to return, alive, from a month-long fishing trip with enough fish to pay for the trip. This requires teamwork, good decisions by the captain, and the respect of the crew for the captain and vice versa. The fact that the captain is a woman can have no bearing on the trip if the trip is to be successful. Linda Greenlaw is the only female swordfish boat captain in history.

Gender discrimination does not play a part on her ship. She has the respect of her crew because she has earned it, making good decisions and finding the fish the boat is dependent upon.

1. Find other examples of women who have been successful in a field that is usually reserved for men. What characteristics do these women share with Linda Greenlaw?

2. Why do you think...