America's Great Disasters

by Martin W. Sandler

For more than two centuries, Americans have proven themselves to be courageous and strong. These qualities are never more important than in the face of nature's destructive forces or the dangers brought about by the innovations of the industrial revolution. The San Francisco earthquake, which reduced much of the city to rubble; the sinking of the steamship Sultana, the worst American maritime disaster of all time; and the Johnston flood, which washed away an entire town, are only a few of the calamities to have befallen this country. Through the use of photographs, engravings, and newspaper clippings that detail some of the worst disasters ever to confront this country, author Martin W. Sandler presents the American people at their best, standing firm in situations of great danger. In doing so, a fascinating picture emerges of a nation's bravery, resilience, and humor -- traits that continue to characterize Americans today.

Hardcover

First published May 1, 2003

About the author

Martin W. Sandler has written more than seventy books for children and adults and has written and produced seven television series. He has twice been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize and has won multiple Emmy Awards. He lives in Massachusetts.

Reviews

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this book is intended for children, it should appeal to adults as well. The book covers some of the most well known disasters with specific happenings, such as the San Fransisco earthquake, the Dust Bowl, and the Mount St Helen’s volcanic eruption. But it also tells of the Influenza Epidemic, the Galveston Hurricane, and the Pestigo Fire, as well as others. It even mentioned some little known disasters such as the molasses flood in Boston, tsunamis, and steamboat sinkings. Rich with photographs, newspaper clipping, and engravings, this book is a fascinating look at some of America’s disasters. Good for older kids, adults certainly will appreciate its succinct style.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when it first came out in 2003. I've read it many times since. Apparently it is out of print now which bums me out because I would love to own it and wish I had bought it when I could have. I recommend this fascinating collection of facts, anecdotes, and photos to kids toward the end of third grade and older. There are no gruesome photos but the descriptions do not sugarcoat the horribleness of the disasters. My opinion is that early third-graders are a bit too young. I had never heard of the 1871 Peshtigo, Wisconsin fire before this book and I have lived in the Chicagoland area my whole life. It turns out this devastating fire took place on the same night as the Great Chicago Fire. It decimated the entire town and killed nearly half the population. In fact, the fire was so fast that bodies were found in fleeing positions reminding me of Mt. Vesuvius. Three hundred some souls were lost in the Chicago Fire while Peshtigo and the surrounding area lost as many as 1,500 people. The book also covers one of my favorite historical eras, The Dust Bowl, as well as the Johnstown Flood, the Galveston Hurricane, the San Francisco earthquake, and the 1918-1919 influenza epidemic, among others. Although most reviewers suggest 3rd/4th grades and up, I think adults would find it riveting as well.