"In the years preceding 1935, radio was still a new technology and it is obvious that Mr. Baarslag and those he writes about view it as both a marvel and a technological tool. To them it is amazing, it is magical, it is a source of income and it is means by which they can hire themselves out on a steamer and see the world. The tone of the writing fully captures these attributes and does so in a way that has appeal to the modern reader, even those without an understanding of radio or nautical terminology."
Yes, when I was 9 or 10 years old and learned of ham radio, it was amazing and magical to me and if it hadn't already been made (functionally) obsolete (1971 - 1972), I would probably have pursued it as a source of income. I did "see the world," but not by maritime radio operations. I wish I still had that magical and amazing feeling about ham radio today.
Looks like I would enjoy reading that book also. I'll be searching for one. Thanks.