Book excerpt: HMS Warrior, launched in 1860, was the first iron-hulled, sea-going armoured ship, and for many years was the most powerful warship in the world. Rescued a century later from her role as a refuelling hulk, she became the object of the most ambitious ship restoration project ever mounted and is now afloat and open to visitors at Portsmouth.??As is the case for many historic ships, however, there is a surprising shortage of informative and well illustrated guides, for reference during a visit or for research by enthusiasts _ ship modellers, naval buffs, technical historians or students. This new series redresses the gap. ??Written by experts and containing more than 200 specially commissioned photographs, each title takes the reader on a superbly illustrated tour of the ship, deck by deck. Significant parts of the vessel _ for example, the steering gear, armament and armour, engine-room and gundeck _ are given detailed coverage so that the reader has at hand the most complete visual record and explanation of the ship that is at present available.??In addition, the importance of the ship, both in her own time and now as a museum vessel, is explained, while her design and build, her service career and her life prior to restoration and exhibition are all described.??The Seaforth Historic Ship Series is a truly groundbreaking concept, bringing the ships of our past vividly to life.