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Sea Stories

By: William H. McRaven
Narrated by: William H. McRaven
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Publisher's summary

Following the success of his number one New York Times best seller Make Your Bed, which has sold more than one million copies, Admiral William H. McRaven is back with amazing stories of bravery and heroism from his career as a Navy SEAL and commander of America's Special Operations Forces.

Admiral William H. McRaven is a part of American military history, having been involved in some of the most famous missions in recent memory, including the capture of Saddam Hussein, the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips, and the raid to kill Osama bin Laden.

Sea Stories begins in 1963 at a French officers' club in France, where Allied officers and their wives gathered to have drinks and tell stories about their adventures during World War II - the place where a young Bill McRaven learned the value of a good story. Sea Stories is an unforgettable look back on one man's incredible life, from childhood days sneaking into high-security nuclear sites to a day job of hunting terrorists and rescuing hostages.

Action-packed, humorous, and full of valuable life lessons like those exemplified in McRaven's best-selling book Make Your Bed, Sea Stories is a remarkable memoir from one of America's most accomplished leaders.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2019 William H. McRaven (P)2019 Hachette Audio
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Critic reviews

"McRaven...has taken the genesis of what he learned during SEAL training and his nearly four decades in Navy Special Operations into a thin, powerful book." (USA Today)

"Engaging...Sea Stories is more than an autobiography, more than a narrative of recent military history, and more than the sum of one remarkable man's experiences. In his excellently flowing prose...McRaven not only allows readers the opportunity to vicariously experience daring adventures and the command of elite warriors heading into harm's way, he also shares practical everyday wisdom." (Booklist, starred review)

"Sea Stories, a well-written book that reads like a thriller, covers some of the most important historical actions taken by Navy SEALs and other special operators." (The Washington Times)

Featured Article: The 20 Best Military Audiobooks from History to Fiction and Beyond


The titles that fall under the designation of military audiobooks are more varied and diverse than you might think. From firsthand combat accounts to imaginative works of fiction, these listens cover a lot of ground on both domestic and international disputes, scientific and sociological analyses, male and female perspectives, lessons from victory and loss, and more. What they have in common, though, are themes of courage, loss, and determination.

What listeners say about Sea Stories

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Repeatative storyline.

the admiral is only a serviceable narrator. his stories lack punch. I would expect more interesting material.

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4 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Great Book

Simply, one of the best books I have ever read. Well written and well read by Admiral McRaven.

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2 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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A John Wayne-like Character

William McRaven is my hero now! To listen to the story of McRaven’s service to our nation in his own voice was such an awe inspiring experience. Knowing that men and women like him are protecting our country made me feel very grateful! This man has a lot of valuable knowledge on how to live a life of integrity. I encourage everyone but especially young people to listen to what he has to say.

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1 person found this helpful

  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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True Hero

great stories we all should hear.
the boy stories were a bit much!
but they set the stage

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1 person found this helpful

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Tissue! I need tissue!

A most inspirational read because it’s real and it’s true. No one could have narrated except for Admiral McRaven. The only way it could be authentic. Sad that the book ended. I’ve seen him on MSNBC as an analyst. A man of such integrity and courage!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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McRaven is an Amazing man (and author)!

I cannot endorse this book enough! McRaven and the men that came before him are the reason why we are the greatest country on earth. It is amazing to get a glimpse of his life!

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something for everyone

Brilliant. Exciting and inspiring. Honest and humbling. Extremely well written and read. Eye opening and uplifting

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Great first hand account!

Great listen, had it on as often as possible! First hand telling of an amazing life and military service - Thank you Sir

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Amazing!

Just amazing, I was completely engaged. This book was life changing! I would read this man times over.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Fascinating and so informative!

A bit slow in the beginning but when it picked up steam it was fascinating. Having Admiral McRaven read it made all the difference. It made the book so real and meaningful. It was abundant with the spirit of humanity, pride, respect, unsurpassed bravery and commitment to our democracy. If you read nothing else in the book be sure to read the last chapter which is his retirement speech. The entire book evokes tremendous pride in our military and the amazing women and men who serve. My father served in WWII with General Patton and although he was in a different branch of the military the book gave me a deeper appreciation for his service and sacrifice which made the book especially meaningful.

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