I have to agree that Jessica's book was a good read. Her great personality shows through. She had the advantage of technology over her predecessors in that she wrote most of the book whilst at sea. I followed her blog but also followed her exploits via the critical thread of her trip in "Sailing Anarchy forums". It was obvious she did as well as her shore team did too, there are plenty of references in the book to this.
Of the early books by single handers Robin Knox Johnson's is a stand out. Didn't like Francis Chicester's books. Bernard Montessior writes good books as well though his last one got a bit weird.
Just to change the subject slightly I would like to recommend a video, "Deep Water". Its mainly about Donald Crowhurst in the inaugural round the world race but also has interviews and video of the other yachts and competitors. It really shows how yachting has changed dramatically in a very short time.
