The index is organized alphabetically and includes page numbers for each reference. The index is 15 pages long and includes over 500 entries.

: Provides discussion questions and historical background on the real-life events that inspired Moby-Dick .

provides an index-level overview of the primary accounts (including Owen Chase and Thomas Nickerson) that Philbrick used as "raw material" for his narrative. Thematic Guide NEA Big Read Teacher's Guide

But there is a dark side to this convenience.