R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on 7/8/2013 + 1438 more book reviews

What a read! The hurricane of 1900 that devastated Galveston was an incredible event. That so many people were killed is appalling because much of the death was due to the failure of men to cooperate and focus on the disastrous storm that was approaching this seacoast city rather than bolstering their egos and building power bases.

I have found some of the historical reads I explore to be outstanding in many ways. Larson researches topics thoroughly and puts the reader right in the middle of what is occurring. With bodies floating by those who would rescue survivors, a dog lost because it is searching for a special person, and the bravery of a man who manages to keep his family together as they float in the waters. In addition, Larson's portrait of Isaac depicts a man with faults as well as of his own. I like that. In addition, Larson weaves attitudes of the time on and gender, combined with a bureaucracy laden with self-serving individuals.

This would have been a five star read except some of the background early in the novel became a bit tedious for me. I thought it should have been pruned. Nevertheless, I recommend this book highly because you can discover for yourself the power of wind and water from a hurricane.

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