Book review: Where on Earth are we going? This map historian isn’t sure. 'Four Points of the Compass' explores the disorienting history of our relationship to direction.

The four cardinal points on a compass of north, east, south and west are defined by the physical realities of the magnetic North Pole (north-south) and the rising and setting of the sun (east-west).

A compass rose at the intersection of Water Street, Front Street and Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz created by Santa Cruz artist Sean Monaghan points the way to the city’s sister cities.

Four Points of the Compass is a unique and observant history — one that never lingers or overshares, and one that shines in its ability to subvert our preconceptions.

In “Four Points of the Compass,” Jerry Brotton explores the disorienting, dizzying history of our relationship to direction.