"While this book concentrates on boating in Lake Michigan, its lessons apply to all boaters everywhere. U.S. Coast Guard Senior Chief Tom Rau's extensive experience in search and rescue and boating safe'ty education is evident. There is a life-saving lesson in every story he tells. Though Tom has retired from the Guard, he will undoubtedly continue to save lives through this book." - Richard Hubbard, Author, Boater's Bowditch
"I am extremely pleased to see that Tom Rau has taken the time to put forward a lasting collection of his fabulous 'Boat Smart' stories. Boaters have been looking forward to reading his weekly column for years and now stand to benefit by having his timeless words of wisdom at their finger tips on a lasting basis." - Anthony Popiel, Commander, US Coast Guard
"You won't believe the boating stories Senior Chief Rau so masterfully tells. Read, laugh and weep, but foremost learn so Lake Michigan doesn't devour you and yours." - Chief Todd Reed, USCGR (ret), 30-year Coast Guard Lake Michigan Motor Lifeboat Coxswain
"Regardless of your level of experience with boats or around water, this book will definitely increase your situational awareness of the marine environment and its many challenges and dangers." - Capt. Dean G. Hobbs, Past Grand Lodge President - International Shipmasters Association, Senior Capt. S.S. Badger, Lake Michigan Car Ferry
"If you're not a far safer boater after reading these unbelievable tales of boater screwups with valuable lessons learned then I urge you to stay off the water if not but for the sake of your loved ones." - Chief Jeffrey Miller, USCG (ret), Motor Lifeboat Coxswain, Search and Rescue Station Mnanager
"Boaters and landlubbers alike will truly enjoy the many stories of rescues with valuable lessons learned. A wonderful book from a man who knows what he's talking about." - Jim Shepard, Past Commander, Grand Rapids United States Power Squadron
"Boat Smart Chronicles is an excellent resource for all boaters: paddle, sail, and power. It will encourage you to think about safe'ty practices and what to do during an emergency. Whether new to boating or an old salt, there is much to be leamed from Tom's firsthand experiences." - Eric Lind, Senior Race Officer, United States Sailing Association
"Tom Rau's Boat Smart Chronicles clearly reveal the average recreational boater is dangerously uneducated." - Capt. John Watson, Society of Marine Surveyors, Michigan DNR Officer (ret)
"Excellent, a must read for anyone who goes to sea and should be a required read for beginning boaters. Great Lakes Maritime Academy will use this book in conjunction with our survival training classes." - Rear Admiral, John Tanner Superintendent, Great Lakes Maritime Academy
"As former Coast Guard Ninth District and Atlantic Area Commander, I often received reports of recreational boating deaths and injuries--most were absolutely avoidable. I urge that anyone young or old, experienced or novice who lives or plays on or near the water to take this book to heart. It's offers an invaluable ounce of prevention that could well save your life." - Vice Admiral Jim Hull, U.S. Coast Guard (ret)
"Their folksy tone bolstered by fascinating detail and eyewitness accounts, Tom Rau's stories of inland sea survival -- and disaster -- have thrilled me for years. Rau's cautionary tales are a must-read for any would-be boater -- and a captivating read for anyone, even a non-boater like me." - Ben Beversluis, Lakeshore Editor, the Grand Rapids Press
