Thomas Andrews: Shipbuilder

by Shan F. Bullock

A biography of the Chief Designer of the Titanic who was the first to realize the magnitude of her collision, and lost his life with the ship.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction

80 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1996

Reviews

[Libby Andrews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thomas Andrews was the architect of the Titanic and also a great uncle of mine. I read this book to learn more about him and to better know my heritage. I’m proud to be a descendent of such an honest, hardworking gentleman. His death on the ship he loved showed courage and selflessness. I’m sure it represents the beliefs and values if the era he grew up in as I don’t think my branch of Andrews’ would be so gracious today. I feel he stayed on the ship out of duty, because he designed and built it and must therefore accept its shortcomings. He was seen at the end throwing deck chairs into the sea to help people in the water. This after getting as many women snd children into lifeboats. RIP Uncle Tommie

[Charity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very thin volume dating to shortly after the disaster; it underscores dramatically how beloved Andrews was by all who knew him, but offers little in the way of documented information about his life. It's a charming Edwardian read but left me wanting more -- and sad that this wonderful man met such a fate.

[Ian Andrew Hopper · Rating 5 out of 5]

A positively impactful tribute to Thomas Andrews Jr.

Shan Bullock's biography of Thomas Andrews's life is a heartfelt wonder to the man who captured the hearts of Belfast. As a boy, the story of Thomas, or 'Tommy' Andrews inspired my nearly lifelong dream of becoming a Naval Architect. Without Shan Bullock, much of this information would be lost to history. This biography is well worth the read.

[Michelle Becerra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel was very interesting and educational. It is a little slow in the begging but picks up in the last chapter . I found this book more on the slower side but easy to read because of the size !

[Carrington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm one of those weirdos who's been bewitched by the Titanic since before the movie even came out, and one of the most fascinating parts of the story for me was the character of Thomas Andrews, who always seemed like a hero, despite the fact that he designed and built the ill-fated ship. I'd always been curious to know more about his life, and this short biography sums up the main points fairly well. He had numerous heroic qualities both in life and in death, and just comes across as an all-around good, humble person. It was refreshing to read, and made his loss for those who knew and loved him seem all the sadder.

[Hannah Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short & sweet. I wish it were longer/more in-depth, but it serves its purpose.

[Briar · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short, beautiful little account of Mr. Andrews. I wish there was more detail but much was probably lost with the sinking. Great, quick read.

[Kimba · Rating 4 out of 5]

An overview of a life cut too short. Lots of praise and respect given to the man who designed the Titanic.