This post is a review of the book The Titanic: Lost and Found (Step-Into-Reading, Step 4)
The Summary
This text covers the classic story of the sinking of the Titanic in the early part of the 20th century. Originally build as unsinkable the Titanic collided with an iceberg and sank on its first voyage from Europe to America.
The text describes the accommodations and size of the ship. Such amenities as a pool and dining halls are depicted. At the time, the Titanic was also the largest passenger ship ever built.
When the ship had its incident with the iceberg people were supposedly laughing and joking as they were called to the deck for evacuation. This is actually an emotionally poweful moment in the text that a small child will miss. The people actually believed the foolish claim that a ship was unsinkable. To make matters worse, there were not enough lifeboats as even the builders of the ship arrogantly believed this as well.
Adding to the discouragement was the fact that a nearby ship ignored the radio calls of the sinking Titanic because their radio was turned off. When the people finally began to realize the danger they were in fear quickly set in. For whatever reason, the musicians continue to play music to try and keep the people calm and even played a hymn right before the final sinking of the ship. A somewhat chilling ending.
The book then concludes with the people in the lifeboat being rescued, it mentions changes to laws to prevent this disaster from happening again, and the final section of the text shares the story of how the Titanic was found in the 1980’s by researchers.
The Good
This book is written in simple language for small children. It can be read by early primary students. This text also provides a good introduction into one of the great tragedies of modern western history.
The illustrations also help to describe what is happening in the text. Lastly, the text is not that long and probably can be read in a few days by a child alone.
The Bad
There is little to complain about with this text. It should be in any primary teacher’s library. The only problem may be that it is a paperback book so it will not last long enduring the wear and tear that comes from small children.
The Recommendation
There will be no regrets if you purchase this book for your classroom or home.