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Magnitude
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Iceberg and The Free State of Jax comes the harrowing story of the fight for survival during the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906 and the desperate race to find survivors.San Francisco, 1906.When Cora leaves her house in the early morning hours of April 18th, she expects trouble to find her, like it somehow always does. But as she makes her way to the San Francisco docks to look for her father, the earth begins to shake and suddenly, Cora realizes that she's not just in trouble--she's in danger.Soon after, the last thing Cora remembers seeing is a tall building swaying overhead, before everything goes dark.When Cora wakes up, she's trapped underground with Chi, whom she met by accident on the way to the docks. They're running short on air and time, when miraculously, Cora's friend Oliver pulls them from the rubble. Once she's above ground again, Cora is shocked to find herself in a city that has been decimated by a massive earthquake.Together, Cora, Chi, and Oliver begin a desperate search for their families, all the while trying to evade terrifying fires that are tearing through the wreckage and a gang of thieves who are pursuing Cora and a valuable secret she holds.From beloved #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen comes a thrilling, suspenseful story about courage, friendship, and the strength it takes to survive one of the most terrible natural disasters this country has ever seen.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2026
About the author
Jennifer A. Nielsen
52 books9,985 followersJennifer lives at the base of a very tall mountain in Northern Utah with her husband, three children, and a naughty puppy. She loves the smell of rainy days, hot chocolate, and old books, preferably all at once. She is a former speech teacher, theater director, and enjoyed a brief but disastrous career as a door-to-door pollster. In her spare time, Jennifer tends to panic, wondering what she has forgotten to do that has allowed her any spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
March 9, 2026
She's really good at making her characters and settings come alive and feel like you could reach out and touch them and step outside the door and see everything they see.
I can't imagine the fear and the chaos during and after this huge event 💔😢. So many losing everything and some happily finding each other.
And others taking advantage to loot from the rubble 😠.
But there was also brave,kind, and selfless people as well.
It's amazing the city was able to be rebuilt.. would love to read fiction and nonfiction books about rebuilding after the earthquake.
I can't imagine the fear and the chaos during and after this huge event 💔😢. So many losing everything and some happily finding each other.
And others taking advantage to loot from the rubble 😠.
But there was also brave,kind, and selfless people as well.
It's amazing the city was able to be rebuilt.. would love to read fiction and nonfiction books about rebuilding after the earthquake.
April 17, 2026
"The ground beneath my feet began rumbling....
The rumbling came with a low growl somewhere deep below [me], almost as if a giant had been snoring and was beginning to awaken.
But this was no made-up story of giants. This was an earthquake....
And I quickly realized the earthquake was only just the beginning."
✏️ Review ✏️
One of my favorite things about Jennifer A. Nielsen's historical fiction stories is the way in which Nielsen presents the facts and events of history in an educational and engaging manner. Magnitude is no exception. Recounting the horrific events of the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, Magnitude brings readers on an unpredictable escapade through the burning streets of destruction-ridden San Francisco. This story brings the uncertainty, panic, and devastation of that day tactfully into the hands of readers who are eager to find out what happens next.
The plot's pacing and delivery is handled well. I will submit that certainly not every part of the plot maintained a gripping or satisfactory pace, but I must say that I found the storyline of Magnitude to be a bit better than some of Nielsen's other historical fiction stories both in terms of believability and intrigue. The historical magnitude of the 1906 earthquake is combined with character dilemmas and conflicts that blend seamlessly with the storyline to produce realistic suspense and uncertainty.
Streamlined, straightforward, yet descriptive in its own way — these are the typical characteristics of Nielsen's writing style. It's somehow effortlessly enjoyable while maintaining easy navigation without superfluous encumbrances. After reading almost all of Jennifer A. Nielsen's books over the past two years, I've learned to expect no more or no less from Nielsen's writing style; in fact, I've come to rather enjoy her writing style as it gets right down to the business of the story at hand and makes for effortless reading. And although it's arguably more simplistic, the writing style still performs a splendid job at delivering the atmosphere, emotions, and action depicted in Magnitude.
Both of the MCs feature satisfying development and character depth fueled mostly by a connected backstory of a broken friendship. I liked the characters' distinct personalities, their strengths and weaknesses, and the role they each play in this story. Cora and Oliver compliment each other and the story well; Chi adds more positive character qualities while also allowing for pertinent historical insight about the wrongful prejudices against the Chinese community in early 1900s San Francisco.
Perhaps my second favorite thing about Jennifer A. Nielsen's stories, particularly her historical ones, are the important themes which are metaphorically woven throughout the storyline. With its emphasis on an earthquake and the following destruction and aftershocks, Magnitude is creatively infused with observable themes based on these real-life aspects. Just as an earthquake will split the ground and destroy buildings, so too will arguments and jealousy begin an unmerciful earthquake that will split and destroy friendships. Reconciliation of such broken friendships is possible. But only if each friend is unconditionally committed to navigating and supporting each other as they rebuild amidst the subsequent rubble and aftershocks of such an earthquake in their friendship.... Two thumbs up for the themes!
Nielsen understands the balance of crafting exciting and educational MG/teen historical fiction: blending the historical facts and events with an engaging storyline. And I must admit that I learned more — quite a bit more actually — about the Great San Francisco Earthquake by reading Magnitude than from any of my history classes.
While Magnitude delivers an educational narrative about the 1906 Great San Francisco Earthquake, it also poignantly illustrates the symbolic earthquakes and their subsequent destruction we all face in our own lives... and the joy and satisfaction that comes from determining to overcome these earthquakes by rebuilding together with the help and support of our community, family, and friends.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• A good portion of the plot — while it isn't stellar, it's still engaging and realistic.
• The seamless presentation of the historical facts within the storyline.
• The MCs — they do receive some development throughout the story and compliment the story satisfyingly.
• The incorporation of positive themes.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• A few parts of the plot were slower and not as gripping.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Of course.*
— To whom? To those who enjoy middle grade/teen historical fiction stories that have a mix of slow and exciting moments.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3.75/5 [rounded up to 4 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 3.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Content note Astrology, horoscope predictions, and zodiac birth signs (i.e., Capricorn, Sagittarius, etc.) are briefly touched on and mentioned on sporadic occasions throughout Magnitude. Details and references are minimal and the story's attitude towards this topic is negative, as the FMC agrees that astrology doesn't work and is "not scientific." While Magnitude does not endorse or promote astrology, you should be aware of the topic's presence in this book when deciding if Magnitude is suitable for younger readers.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
The rumbling came with a low growl somewhere deep below [me], almost as if a giant had been snoring and was beginning to awaken.
But this was no made-up story of giants. This was an earthquake....
And I quickly realized the earthquake was only just the beginning."
✏️ Review ✏️
One of my favorite things about Jennifer A. Nielsen's historical fiction stories is the way in which Nielsen presents the facts and events of history in an educational and engaging manner. Magnitude is no exception. Recounting the horrific events of the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, Magnitude brings readers on an unpredictable escapade through the burning streets of destruction-ridden San Francisco. This story brings the uncertainty, panic, and devastation of that day tactfully into the hands of readers who are eager to find out what happens next.
The plot's pacing and delivery is handled well. I will submit that certainly not every part of the plot maintained a gripping or satisfactory pace, but I must say that I found the storyline of Magnitude to be a bit better than some of Nielsen's other historical fiction stories both in terms of believability and intrigue. The historical magnitude of the 1906 earthquake is combined with character dilemmas and conflicts that blend seamlessly with the storyline to produce realistic suspense and uncertainty.
Streamlined, straightforward, yet descriptive in its own way — these are the typical characteristics of Nielsen's writing style. It's somehow effortlessly enjoyable while maintaining easy navigation without superfluous encumbrances. After reading almost all of Jennifer A. Nielsen's books over the past two years, I've learned to expect no more or no less from Nielsen's writing style; in fact, I've come to rather enjoy her writing style as it gets right down to the business of the story at hand and makes for effortless reading. And although it's arguably more simplistic, the writing style still performs a splendid job at delivering the atmosphere, emotions, and action depicted in Magnitude.
Both of the MCs feature satisfying development and character depth fueled mostly by a connected backstory of a broken friendship. I liked the characters' distinct personalities, their strengths and weaknesses, and the role they each play in this story. Cora and Oliver compliment each other and the story well; Chi adds more positive character qualities while also allowing for pertinent historical insight about the wrongful prejudices against the Chinese community in early 1900s San Francisco.
Perhaps my second favorite thing about Jennifer A. Nielsen's stories, particularly her historical ones, are the important themes which are metaphorically woven throughout the storyline. With its emphasis on an earthquake and the following destruction and aftershocks, Magnitude is creatively infused with observable themes based on these real-life aspects. Just as an earthquake will split the ground and destroy buildings, so too will arguments and jealousy begin an unmerciful earthquake that will split and destroy friendships. Reconciliation of such broken friendships is possible. But only if each friend is unconditionally committed to navigating and supporting each other as they rebuild amidst the subsequent rubble and aftershocks of such an earthquake in their friendship.... Two thumbs up for the themes!
Nielsen understands the balance of crafting exciting and educational MG/teen historical fiction: blending the historical facts and events with an engaging storyline. And I must admit that I learned more — quite a bit more actually — about the Great San Francisco Earthquake by reading Magnitude than from any of my history classes.
"April 18, 1906, the day of the great earthquake....
Four hundred thousand people were living in San Francisco at the time, and every one of them was touched by it in some way. For a few, it was an inconvenience. For some, it was a loss. And for the great majority of people, it was devastating.
Yet for me, it was only the beginning of an enormous wave that would continue to crash in the hours that followed....
Because there are some things more terrible than a 7.9-magnitude earthquake. As awful as those forty-five seconds of shaking were, I was about to find out if I could hold on when the waves that followed would prove to the the greatest challenge of my life."
While Magnitude delivers an educational narrative about the 1906 Great San Francisco Earthquake, it also poignantly illustrates the symbolic earthquakes and their subsequent destruction we all face in our own lives... and the joy and satisfaction that comes from determining to overcome these earthquakes by rebuilding together with the help and support of our community, family, and friends.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• A good portion of the plot — while it isn't stellar, it's still engaging and realistic.
• The seamless presentation of the historical facts within the storyline.
• The MCs — they do receive some development throughout the story and compliment the story satisfyingly.
• The incorporation of positive themes.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• A few parts of the plot were slower and not as gripping.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Of course.*
— To whom? To those who enjoy middle grade/teen historical fiction stories that have a mix of slow and exciting moments.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3.75/5 [rounded up to 4 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 3.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Content note Astrology, horoscope predictions, and zodiac birth signs (i.e., Capricorn, Sagittarius, etc.) are briefly touched on and mentioned on sporadic occasions throughout Magnitude. Details and references are minimal and the story's attitude towards this topic is negative, as the FMC agrees that astrology doesn't work and is "not scientific." While Magnitude does not endorse or promote astrology, you should be aware of the topic's presence in this book when deciding if Magnitude is suitable for younger readers.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
September 7, 2025
Writing about a disaster requires a special set of writing skills, foremost among them the dual ability to make the characters have a stake that's not entirely related to the disaster itself. Nielsen did this beautifully in her book Iceberg (about the Titanic), but it doesn't quite work as well here. In large part, this is because we simply don't get quite enough information about the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. There are headings at the start of each chapter charting first the quake and then the progress of the fires, and bits of information about the way the Chinese community was treated and the corrupt city government are present, but they don't intertwine with Cora's story quite as well as they might have - and the historical note in the back doesn't really give readers any resources or additional information.
Still, the basic story and writing are good. Nielsen does a solid job of depicting Cora's moral dilemmas and if the plot about the rift between her family and her best friend Oliver's isn't as developed as it could be, it's still a good backdrop for the other issues she faces. Chi is the least developed character in the book, and since she's also the only nonwhite character, that's a problem; I really would have liked to see a bit more go into her other than "People in 1906 learn that Asians are human too."
I think I would still recommend Outrun the Moon to a middle grade audience looking for a book about the earthquake, but that doesn't mean that this one isn't worth reading. Rather it's the book you pick up when you already know the basic history and want a story in that time and place, not the one you pick up to learn about it in the first place.
Still, the basic story and writing are good. Nielsen does a solid job of depicting Cora's moral dilemmas and if the plot about the rift between her family and her best friend Oliver's isn't as developed as it could be, it's still a good backdrop for the other issues she faces. Chi is the least developed character in the book, and since she's also the only nonwhite character, that's a problem; I really would have liked to see a bit more go into her other than "People in 1906 learn that Asians are human too."
I think I would still recommend Outrun the Moon to a middle grade audience looking for a book about the earthquake, but that doesn't mean that this one isn't worth reading. Rather it's the book you pick up when you already know the basic history and want a story in that time and place, not the one you pick up to learn about it in the first place.
June 28, 2026
Such a talented author. Wonderful story and history. Highly recommend.
April 2, 2026
I love Jennifer Nielsen’s books. This one didn’t disappoint! The intensity of these three teenagers strive to survive an earthquake while finding their families. So much action and excitement. I also didn’t know a lot about the San Francisco earthquake. She is a master at bringing her research into her historical fiction books. Excellent read!
March 11, 2026
I'd say 2.5 stars. There were some parts I liked and others that did not seem realistic at all...
April 26, 2026
3.5 stars. This was an entertaining and adventurous middle grade historical fiction. While it did take place during San Francisco's great earthquake, I felt that most of the novel focused on friendship and the main character's moral decisions. With that said, I breezed through this book trying to discover what happened next and learned several facts about San Francisco and the earthquake that I didn't know previously. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the digital ARC.
January 15, 2026
Jennifer A. Nielsen has done it again--taken me to a historical setting I know only a little about and plopped me into the middle of an action-packed adventure with high stakes and lovable characters. Cora, Chi, and Oliver felt like family by the time I finished reading about their story, which takes place during the Great San Francisco Earthquake in 1906.
This is one of those stories that has you cringing at the character's choices, were you think things can't possibly get worse and then they do, but somehow it all turns out okay. Choices are made with real consequences--both good and bad. I love that I can hand this novel to my children and know they're getting a dose of history along with ethics.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for sending me an advanced ecopy to review! All opinions are my own.
This is one of those stories that has you cringing at the character's choices, were you think things can't possibly get worse and then they do, but somehow it all turns out okay. Choices are made with real consequences--both good and bad. I love that I can hand this novel to my children and know they're getting a dose of history along with ethics.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for sending me an advanced ecopy to review! All opinions are my own.
September 19, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for giving me a ARC of this book. This was my very first Jennifer A. Nielsen book and I flew through it. I really enjoyed the nonstop plot, the chaos our main character deals with throughout and how everything is resolved. I truly enjoyed how the author how all people are important and how they all share in the destruction and the shock of the earthquake too. I am looking forward to adding more books from this author on my TBR. Great read!
Did Not Finish
March 28, 2026I was so excited for this book to come out! I finally got it from the library and within the first few pages the MC was talking about horoscopes, betting how she was going to survive on which horoscopes she was, and other things. I can tolerate one mention of horoscopes in the entire book, but I was like 10 pages in and she had already mentioned them about 10 times. I was very disappointed that Nielsen included this, and chose not to finish this book.
March 28, 2026
This is undoubtedly one of the most memorable reads of this month.
To be honest, I had a very hard time getting into the book and so I put off reading it for a long time. And while I'm still not entirely certain I'm the right reader for the book, I did push on and soon found myself utterly invested. The story is incredibly fast-paced, with a lot of disasters and plot threads throughout, and Jennifer A. Nielsen's writing is so vivid and descriptive. I don't know too much about the San Francisco fire and earthquake in 1906, so I found it quite interesting to read about.
The way everything is woven together in the book is brilliant, and I loved the friendships and characters!! Chi is my favorite character, as she is just such a sweet person and a brilliant friend. I also loved seeing Oliver and Cora's relationship grow in this book!
The only qualms I have over this book (which is not at all a bad thing and is honestly to be expected, seeing as the book literally takes place during the San Francisco fire in 1906. But it is the main reason I don't think I'm quite the right reader for this book.), is how it often feels like it just lurches from disaster to disaster throughout the story. It is definitely very gritty and action-packed, and I just don't think I'm the best reader for those kinds of novels. I'm very much someone who prefers sweet, whimsical MG fantasy stories.
But that being said, I still enjoyed reading this book and I do think it is a brilliant, well-written novel. I would definitely recommend it to a lot of my friends, as well as middle-grade readers who enjoy action-packed books. Five out of five stars from me.
To be honest, I had a very hard time getting into the book and so I put off reading it for a long time. And while I'm still not entirely certain I'm the right reader for the book, I did push on and soon found myself utterly invested. The story is incredibly fast-paced, with a lot of disasters and plot threads throughout, and Jennifer A. Nielsen's writing is so vivid and descriptive. I don't know too much about the San Francisco fire and earthquake in 1906, so I found it quite interesting to read about.
The way everything is woven together in the book is brilliant, and I loved the friendships and characters!! Chi is my favorite character, as she is just such a sweet person and a brilliant friend. I also loved seeing Oliver and Cora's relationship grow in this book!
The only qualms I have over this book (which is not at all a bad thing and is honestly to be expected, seeing as the book literally takes place during the San Francisco fire in 1906. But it is the main reason I don't think I'm quite the right reader for this book.), is how it often feels like it just lurches from disaster to disaster throughout the story. It is definitely very gritty and action-packed, and I just don't think I'm the best reader for those kinds of novels. I'm very much someone who prefers sweet, whimsical MG fantasy stories.
But that being said, I still enjoyed reading this book and I do think it is a brilliant, well-written novel. I would definitely recommend it to a lot of my friends, as well as middle-grade readers who enjoy action-packed books. Five out of five stars from me.
May 18, 2026
Honestly I was disappointed. Compared to her other historical fiction books this one was pretty mid. I’ve followed her books for the last 5 years. I personally think she does best writing WW2 fiction.
March 8, 2026
Loved this one. Couldn’t put it down. Four stars because some of the history was not on point. Including the dust cover. Still worth the read.
Did Not Finish
May 25, 2026DNF 60%
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book has a lot going on--Cora, Zhi, and Oliver all dealing with the earthquake and looking for/worrying about their families; Cora trying to get away from a couple of gang members who she owes money to, Cora and Oliver trying to sort out their friendship when their families are at odds, etc.--and it didn't all come together quite as cleanly as I would've liked. I really liked the historical details woven into the story--from the way the fire was handled (such as dynamiting building to try to create firebreaks and the prejudices against the people in Chinatown), but I felt like the whole element with Cora owing money to some boys who are constantly trying to track her down fell a little flat; the villains were just stock characters and that whole plot element didn't add that much to the book; I think it could have been removed and the book wouldn't really have lost anything because the other elements could have been developed more and made a cohesive, engaging story. That said, I will definitely still be snagging this for my kids to read because I'm sure they'll enjoy the story and the historical details.
I read a DRC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I read a DRC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 21, 2026
First sentence: The first time I felt an earthquake, I was nine years old.
Premise/plot: Magnitude is middle grade historical fiction set in San Francisco, 1906. Cora, Oliver, and Chi are unlikely friends brought together by circumstance. Cora and Oliver were once the closest of close friends until their parents quarreled. Cora and Chi were strangers when the story opens. But being at the same place when the earthquake hit brought them together--when the road collapsed they fell underground and were trapped together. Oliver 'rescues' them both. But that's not the end of their adventures.
My thoughts: I wanted to like this book. I did not like this book. Why didn't I like this book? I felt almost all the characters lacked common sense. I truly did. Granted middle grade novels are typically centered on kids being independent and not relying on adults even in adult situations. Parents are usually 'absent' from the plot or poorly drawn and flat. But in this one, the three friends make unwise decisions one hundred percent of the time. Run away from danger? Run towards parents? NO. Run towards danger? Run toward fires? Yes. Run toward exploding buildings? Yes. Accept the guidance of any and every adult they come across? NO. Do whatever they want despite being warned eight million times? YES. Adults are bad. Surely they are smarter than ANY and EVERY adult. Because they think they always know best, they do find themselves in trouble. And I'm not really blaming Chi--she was just dragged into this story. But because they are the heroes of the book, they have a tied up in a neat bow ending.
You might think you're getting a book about survival, a desperate search to find family, a tale of perseverance against all odds. What you are getting is a story about corruption and greed. Cora took out a loan from a shady, shady guy. When the loan is due, Cora still doesn't have the money. The earthquake happens. The bad shady guys are after her. It's a cat-and-mouse game. The earthquake is not important in the slightest. It's just a girl and her friends being chased by "bad guys" who want the money paid back from the loan. All the characters seem more focused on this loan and money situation than the dangers of the earthquake--the fires, the explosions, being hungry and thirsty, being separated from family, being vulnerable and all.
Premise/plot: Magnitude is middle grade historical fiction set in San Francisco, 1906. Cora, Oliver, and Chi are unlikely friends brought together by circumstance. Cora and Oliver were once the closest of close friends until their parents quarreled. Cora and Chi were strangers when the story opens. But being at the same place when the earthquake hit brought them together--when the road collapsed they fell underground and were trapped together. Oliver 'rescues' them both. But that's not the end of their adventures.
My thoughts: I wanted to like this book. I did not like this book. Why didn't I like this book? I felt almost all the characters lacked common sense. I truly did. Granted middle grade novels are typically centered on kids being independent and not relying on adults even in adult situations. Parents are usually 'absent' from the plot or poorly drawn and flat. But in this one, the three friends make unwise decisions one hundred percent of the time. Run away from danger? Run towards parents? NO. Run towards danger? Run toward fires? Yes. Run toward exploding buildings? Yes. Accept the guidance of any and every adult they come across? NO. Do whatever they want despite being warned eight million times? YES. Adults are bad. Surely they are smarter than ANY and EVERY adult. Because they think they always know best, they do find themselves in trouble. And I'm not really blaming Chi--she was just dragged into this story. But because they are the heroes of the book, they have a tied up in a neat bow ending.
You might think you're getting a book about survival, a desperate search to find family, a tale of perseverance against all odds. What you are getting is a story about corruption and greed. Cora took out a loan from a shady, shady guy. When the loan is due, Cora still doesn't have the money. The earthquake happens. The bad shady guys are after her. It's a cat-and-mouse game. The earthquake is not important in the slightest. It's just a girl and her friends being chased by "bad guys" who want the money paid back from the loan. All the characters seem more focused on this loan and money situation than the dangers of the earthquake--the fires, the explosions, being hungry and thirsty, being separated from family, being vulnerable and all.
June 22, 2026
“Forty-five seconds of destruction that had picked its winners and losers seemingly at random. Some buildings appeared to have sustained little damage, but a building next door might be completely gone, as if fate had closed her eyes and then pointed at her target, either to the left or to the right. I suppose it didn’t matter. All of us had lost today.” (73)
The California earthquake of April 18, 1906, ranks as one of the most significant earthquakes of all time. It is most widely estimated to have had a magnitude of 7.9. Even though shock waves could be felt from southern Oregon to Los Angeles, the earthquake is commonly referred to as the “San Francisco Earthquake” because of the fire it spawned in San Francisco; the quake and resulting fire destroyed over 28,000 buildings and left over 200,000 homeless. Fatalities were estimated at over 3,000 people, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. (USGS and History.com) Through Jennifer Nielsen’s newest historical fiction, readers learn about and live the earthquake and fire through the eyes of 12-year-old Cora.
Cora, whose family had lost their family gold mine and now lived in the tenements south of Market Street, is on her daily trip to the docks in hope of her father’s arrive back from leaving them to look for work when the quake struck. On her way she met Chi, a girl from Chinatown, who helped her escape from two bullies of the Union Street Gang to whom Cora owed money, and both of them sink into a crack in the earth when the quake strikes.
Rescued by Oliver, Cora’s former friend until his family caused the closing of the mine, Chi leaves to look for her family in the decimated Chinatown, and Cora and Oliver cross the city, avoiding police, soldiers, and corrupt officials as they search for Cora’s mother and three younger brothers and then Chi. They also worry about Oliver’s father, the fire chief.
Adding to the destruction and danger, officials are exploding buildings, thinking it could stop the fire. “Things had just taken a serious turn for the worse. If anything still remained from the earthquake’s destruction, the city’s officials were about to destroy that too.” (118)
A thrilling adventure story encompassing themes of morality, racism, government corruption, poverty, friendship, and the power—not always constructive—of nature, MAGNITUDE will engage readers and generate discussions.
The California earthquake of April 18, 1906, ranks as one of the most significant earthquakes of all time. It is most widely estimated to have had a magnitude of 7.9. Even though shock waves could be felt from southern Oregon to Los Angeles, the earthquake is commonly referred to as the “San Francisco Earthquake” because of the fire it spawned in San Francisco; the quake and resulting fire destroyed over 28,000 buildings and left over 200,000 homeless. Fatalities were estimated at over 3,000 people, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. (USGS and History.com) Through Jennifer Nielsen’s newest historical fiction, readers learn about and live the earthquake and fire through the eyes of 12-year-old Cora.
Cora, whose family had lost their family gold mine and now lived in the tenements south of Market Street, is on her daily trip to the docks in hope of her father’s arrive back from leaving them to look for work when the quake struck. On her way she met Chi, a girl from Chinatown, who helped her escape from two bullies of the Union Street Gang to whom Cora owed money, and both of them sink into a crack in the earth when the quake strikes.
Rescued by Oliver, Cora’s former friend until his family caused the closing of the mine, Chi leaves to look for her family in the decimated Chinatown, and Cora and Oliver cross the city, avoiding police, soldiers, and corrupt officials as they search for Cora’s mother and three younger brothers and then Chi. They also worry about Oliver’s father, the fire chief.
Adding to the destruction and danger, officials are exploding buildings, thinking it could stop the fire. “Things had just taken a serious turn for the worse. If anything still remained from the earthquake’s destruction, the city’s officials were about to destroy that too.” (118)
A thrilling adventure story encompassing themes of morality, racism, government corruption, poverty, friendship, and the power—not always constructive—of nature, MAGNITUDE will engage readers and generate discussions.
May 21, 2026
Life in San Francisco in 1906 is challenging for twelve-year-old Cora, not only because her family is in need of money but also because Cora’s father has left the city in search of knowledge that can improve her family’s financial situation. Every day, Cora journeys to the docks in the hopes of being the first person to see her father arrive home. On one particular day, a chance encounter at the docks connects Cora with another youth named Chi just before an enormous earthquake shakes the ground and buildings come crashing down around them. Though survival is not guaranteed, with cunning, determination, and collaboration, Cora and Chi might be able to emerge from the rubble and begin rebuilding their fractured lives.
This historical fiction novel places readers immediately into the setting of the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906. Peril is present from the first moments, and the writing adds an intensity to the storytelling that will keep readers on the edges of their seats. Brief chapters and approachable phrasing make the story well suited to its intended audience, and the fact that the characters are young themselves means that readers can more readily imagine what this experience might have been like. Each chapter focuses on Cora and Chi’s journeys to survival, but the chapter headings include a one-line description of what is happening elsewhere in the city to provide historical context for readers. There is evidence within the narrative of the research done in creating this book, including setting, racial conflict, and sentiments of this moment in time. However, very little is included to inform readers about this research or how it was worked into the otherwise fictional narrative. While additional information would be of interest to readers who enjoy history, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy the I Survived series and are ready for more challenging texts. This is a positive addition to library historical fiction collections for middle grade readers.
This historical fiction novel places readers immediately into the setting of the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906. Peril is present from the first moments, and the writing adds an intensity to the storytelling that will keep readers on the edges of their seats. Brief chapters and approachable phrasing make the story well suited to its intended audience, and the fact that the characters are young themselves means that readers can more readily imagine what this experience might have been like. Each chapter focuses on Cora and Chi’s journeys to survival, but the chapter headings include a one-line description of what is happening elsewhere in the city to provide historical context for readers. There is evidence within the narrative of the research done in creating this book, including setting, racial conflict, and sentiments of this moment in time. However, very little is included to inform readers about this research or how it was worked into the otherwise fictional narrative. While additional information would be of interest to readers who enjoy history, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy the I Survived series and are ready for more challenging texts. This is a positive addition to library historical fiction collections for middle grade readers.
May 24, 2026
Another terrific historical fiction for middle grades that will not only keep readers on the edge of their seat but teach them about the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires that destroyed a city and the lives of thousands.
Focused on the day of the earthquake plus one additional day of crumbling homes and businesses as well as post quake and deliberately set fires, Cora, Oliver and Chi are left separated from their families and are working together to not only stay alive, but find them all. Author Jennifer Nielsen uses chapter headings that include date, time and a phrase indicating the progression of fire destroyed and the trio’s search to describe not only the natural parts of the disaster but actions coming from the mayor, soldiers and looters that exacerbated the situation. Mixed into the book’s primary aspects of earthquake and hunt for family, Nielsen adds a rift between Cora and Oliver’s families and a forced separation between the two close friends as well as Cora’s efforts to support her family due her father’s move to Los Angeles to find work. With Chi’s Chinese heritage, Nielsen is also able to incorporate aspects of the immigrant experience and the discrimination against them.
Well done as always, Magnitude will need to find it’s place among Nielsen’s other works in libraries serving grades 4-8, especially those with high circulation numbers in historical fiction and/or action adventure genres.
*Profanity: none
*Violence: primarily that of nature and from poor decisions by the authorities but two “debt collectors” threaten Cora in a variety of ways and even imprison her in their efforts to collect on money she borrowed from their boss
*Sexual content: none
*Representation: Cora is White, Oliver is an Irish American and while Chi was born in US, her parents immigrated from China; wide variety of economic levels with clear differences in the quality of building in their homes
*LBGTQ+: none
Thanks for the eARC, Edelweiss and Scholastic.
Focused on the day of the earthquake plus one additional day of crumbling homes and businesses as well as post quake and deliberately set fires, Cora, Oliver and Chi are left separated from their families and are working together to not only stay alive, but find them all. Author Jennifer Nielsen uses chapter headings that include date, time and a phrase indicating the progression of fire destroyed and the trio’s search to describe not only the natural parts of the disaster but actions coming from the mayor, soldiers and looters that exacerbated the situation. Mixed into the book’s primary aspects of earthquake and hunt for family, Nielsen adds a rift between Cora and Oliver’s families and a forced separation between the two close friends as well as Cora’s efforts to support her family due her father’s move to Los Angeles to find work. With Chi’s Chinese heritage, Nielsen is also able to incorporate aspects of the immigrant experience and the discrimination against them.
Well done as always, Magnitude will need to find it’s place among Nielsen’s other works in libraries serving grades 4-8, especially those with high circulation numbers in historical fiction and/or action adventure genres.
*Profanity: none
*Violence: primarily that of nature and from poor decisions by the authorities but two “debt collectors” threaten Cora in a variety of ways and even imprison her in their efforts to collect on money she borrowed from their boss
*Sexual content: none
*Representation: Cora is White, Oliver is an Irish American and while Chi was born in US, her parents immigrated from China; wide variety of economic levels with clear differences in the quality of building in their homes
*LBGTQ+: none
Thanks for the eARC, Edelweiss and Scholastic.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Magnitude
Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Category: Middle grade, Historical fiction, Young Adult
Cupcake Rating: 🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁
Magnitude is scheduled to be published on March 3, 2026
Magnitude is a historical fiction chapter book. Magnitude tells a story about a girl named Cora and her family in the early 1900's that experience the Great San Francisco earthquake. Cora's family was very poor, due to their gold mine shutting down. So Cora's dad had to sail away from San Francisco to find a better job. Every morning Cora would walk to the dock to see if her dad was home... she couldn't give up. One day while she was walking to the dock an unexpected earthquake started. This earthquake was like nothing she had dealt with before. When a building falls on her and she is trapped she needs to find a way out. Will she survive? Will she find her family? Will her friends be safe? Netgalley sent me this book early for review purposes and I was very excited. Thank you Netgalley! I had just read A Night Divided and loved it, and when I received Magnitude, I was in the middle of reading Iceberg by the same author. Magnitude is a very detailed and INTENSE book, I loved it so much that I read it in two days. Every page has a new and interesting thing happening. Magnitude has good character development and the plotline kept me on the edge of my seat at all times! The book is intense, but not gory and it is totally clean. A good book for those who love to read mid grade novels. I think everyone should read this book! Grab a copy for yourself and enjoy the ride! I give this book a 🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁 review, IT WAS AMAZING!
Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Category: Middle grade, Historical fiction, Young Adult
Cupcake Rating: 🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁
Magnitude is scheduled to be published on March 3, 2026
Magnitude is a historical fiction chapter book. Magnitude tells a story about a girl named Cora and her family in the early 1900's that experience the Great San Francisco earthquake. Cora's family was very poor, due to their gold mine shutting down. So Cora's dad had to sail away from San Francisco to find a better job. Every morning Cora would walk to the dock to see if her dad was home... she couldn't give up. One day while she was walking to the dock an unexpected earthquake started. This earthquake was like nothing she had dealt with before. When a building falls on her and she is trapped she needs to find a way out. Will she survive? Will she find her family? Will her friends be safe? Netgalley sent me this book early for review purposes and I was very excited. Thank you Netgalley! I had just read A Night Divided and loved it, and when I received Magnitude, I was in the middle of reading Iceberg by the same author. Magnitude is a very detailed and INTENSE book, I loved it so much that I read it in two days. Every page has a new and interesting thing happening. Magnitude has good character development and the plotline kept me on the edge of my seat at all times! The book is intense, but not gory and it is totally clean. A good book for those who love to read mid grade novels. I think everyone should read this book! Grab a copy for yourself and enjoy the ride! I give this book a 🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁 review, IT WAS AMAZING!
June 22, 2026
She's done it again. Jennifer Nielsen has a way of writing historical fiction books that explain the period and event clearly and fully without too much information for young readers. The emotions are real, the information is accurate, and the characters feel like friends. You can share these books with young and old readers alike and know they are appropriate and will be enjoyed.
There is so much going on historically in the time of the San Francisco earthquake; the gold rush in winding down, the city is building up quickly bringing many socioeconomic classes, Chinatown is developing which brings many sad and untrue rumors and prejudices, and the government is taking shape. Add a massive earthquake to that- and you have pure chaos.
Three friends from different backgrounds have to rely on each other to get out of dangerous situations and face the unknown. Cora and Oliver were former best friends, but a feud between their families has severed that- even though they both still care. Chi is a girl from Chinatown facing severe prejudices but her and Cora find themselves thrown together and quickly from a bond that neither one is willing to break. The dangers they face from the natural disaster alongside those from bully's and those looking to take advantage of the poor, make you wonder if they will ever get out of this alive. The buildings shaking and collapsing were not their only concerns.
There is family and friendship, history and hysterics, looting and loyalty, fires and frenzy, dishonestly and difficult choices, and judgement based on where you live.
I highly recommend this and any other book by the author for you and for the young reader in your life.
There is so much going on historically in the time of the San Francisco earthquake; the gold rush in winding down, the city is building up quickly bringing many socioeconomic classes, Chinatown is developing which brings many sad and untrue rumors and prejudices, and the government is taking shape. Add a massive earthquake to that- and you have pure chaos.
Three friends from different backgrounds have to rely on each other to get out of dangerous situations and face the unknown. Cora and Oliver were former best friends, but a feud between their families has severed that- even though they both still care. Chi is a girl from Chinatown facing severe prejudices but her and Cora find themselves thrown together and quickly from a bond that neither one is willing to break. The dangers they face from the natural disaster alongside those from bully's and those looking to take advantage of the poor, make you wonder if they will ever get out of this alive. The buildings shaking and collapsing were not their only concerns.
There is family and friendship, history and hysterics, looting and loyalty, fires and frenzy, dishonestly and difficult choices, and judgement based on where you live.
I highly recommend this and any other book by the author for you and for the young reader in your life.
February 17, 2026
I recently finished Magnitude by Jennifer A. Nielsen, and it was such a powerful read. I really appreciate how she brings different historical events and time periods to life in a way that feels real and personal. This one is set during the Great San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, and you can truly feel the chaos and fear through Cora’s eyes. Cora is the kind of main character who is always finding (or getting into!) trouble, but that’s what makes her so compelling. She’s brave, stubborn, and constantly learning who she can trust. One part that really stood out to me was the mention of the “special police.” Since they wore regular clothes, you couldn’t always tell if someone was pretending to have authority, which honestly reminded me of some modern issues with ICE and how complicated enforcement and identity can feel today.
The book doesn’t shy away from showing how awful people can become during disasters, especially when corruption and fear take over. It also touches on racism in the Chinatown area and the unfair assumptions people made during that time. At the same time, the story beautifully explores friendship: the complexities of it and the incredible power it has even in the hardest moments. Perseverance is a strong theme throughout, as Cora keeps pushing forward no matter what’s thrown at her. It’s a great mix of action, history, and heart. It’s a great read, and I definitely recommend it. I will be purchasing it for my school library.
The book doesn’t shy away from showing how awful people can become during disasters, especially when corruption and fear take over. It also touches on racism in the Chinatown area and the unfair assumptions people made during that time. At the same time, the story beautifully explores friendship: the complexities of it and the incredible power it has even in the hardest moments. Perseverance is a strong theme throughout, as Cora keeps pushing forward no matter what’s thrown at her. It’s a great mix of action, history, and heart. It’s a great read, and I definitely recommend it. I will be purchasing it for my school library.
September 23, 2025
Magnitude by Jennifer A. Nielsen (Mar 3, 2026)
ARC provided by NetGalley
Jennifer A. Nielsen takes readers back to April 1906, San Francisco, on the eve of the devastating earthquake. Cora lives with her mother and siblings in crowded tenements, anxiously awaiting the return of her father, who left to find work after the family gold mine closed. On her way to the pier in hopes of spotting him, Cora encounters Chi (Zhi), who is fighting to keep hold of her bicycle from Vincent and Tony Jr.—two boys Cora knows all too well.
Cora steps in to help, and together she and Chi escape—only for the earth to suddenly split beneath them. The girls plunge into a crevice as buildings collapse around them. They’re later rescued by Oliver, whose family once shared a close bond with Cora’s before time and circumstances fractured that connection.
From there, the trio face a series of perilous challenges amid aftershocks, fires, and destruction, uncertain if they’ll ever make it home to their families.
As in most of Nielsen’s novels, readers will be gripped from the very first page and held fast until the end. Chapters marked with times and dates mirror the relentless rumbling and chaos spreading through San Francisco, heightening both the tension and the atmosphere.
A powerful, fast-paced survival story—highly recommended for upper elementary and middle grade readers.
ARC provided by NetGalley
Jennifer A. Nielsen takes readers back to April 1906, San Francisco, on the eve of the devastating earthquake. Cora lives with her mother and siblings in crowded tenements, anxiously awaiting the return of her father, who left to find work after the family gold mine closed. On her way to the pier in hopes of spotting him, Cora encounters Chi (Zhi), who is fighting to keep hold of her bicycle from Vincent and Tony Jr.—two boys Cora knows all too well.
Cora steps in to help, and together she and Chi escape—only for the earth to suddenly split beneath them. The girls plunge into a crevice as buildings collapse around them. They’re later rescued by Oliver, whose family once shared a close bond with Cora’s before time and circumstances fractured that connection.
From there, the trio face a series of perilous challenges amid aftershocks, fires, and destruction, uncertain if they’ll ever make it home to their families.
As in most of Nielsen’s novels, readers will be gripped from the very first page and held fast until the end. Chapters marked with times and dates mirror the relentless rumbling and chaos spreading through San Francisco, heightening both the tension and the atmosphere.
A powerful, fast-paced survival story—highly recommended for upper elementary and middle grade readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The great San Francisco earthquake in 1906 was the focus of this middle grade book. Nielsen writes from a young girl’s perspective, who has been traipsing all around the city, avoiding the street gang who is after her and looking out for her father who could return home any day now. Cora finds herself down by the docks when the earthquake hits, and is sucked down a hole, along with Chi, her new friend who is Chinese American. The other piece to this story is Oliver, the boy who’s family used to be good friends with Cora’s but had a falling out over a mine dispute.
This is one book where I really wish I could rate in half stars as this is a solid 3.5 star read for me. The topic was interesting, but the delivery could have been less choppy and repetitive. This beginning was an immediate attention grabber, and the ending sped forward at breakneck speed, however the middle of the book lagged without the same tension. I also don’t feel that the timeline at the beginning of each chapter was helpful, especially since nothing in the chapter eluded back to the chapter heading and it created a choppiness to the story. A map of the city would have been more helpful. On the good side, this was a much needed historical fiction book for middle grade readers and I did enjoy learning about the aftermath of the earthquake. Recommended for upper elementary and middle school readers.
This is one book where I really wish I could rate in half stars as this is a solid 3.5 star read for me. The topic was interesting, but the delivery could have been less choppy and repetitive. This beginning was an immediate attention grabber, and the ending sped forward at breakneck speed, however the middle of the book lagged without the same tension. I also don’t feel that the timeline at the beginning of each chapter was helpful, especially since nothing in the chapter eluded back to the chapter heading and it created a choppiness to the story. A map of the city would have been more helpful. On the good side, this was a much needed historical fiction book for middle grade readers and I did enjoy learning about the aftermath of the earthquake. Recommended for upper elementary and middle school readers.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
The San Francisco Earthquake is a siginificant event in our nation's history. I was thrilled to discover that Jennifer A. Nielsen had a new book coming out about the event.
What was it like to live through those catastrophic days in 1906?
Here are some things I really appreciated about this upcoming title:
👧Cora Henshaw is our narrator. She is a scrappy heroine who is not afraid to get her hands dirty. There was a bit too much made of her astrological sign, but she did use her head to think about overcoming the obstacles in her way.
👦Oliver Brennan is an old friend and he provides needed support for Cora in the aftermath of the earthquake. Their families have been feuding so the relationship is complicated and adds to their distress.
🐉The Chinatown population was also deeply affected by the earthquake in addition to the racial strife in the city. Nielsen gives us some insight into how the conflict would have played out before and after the disaster.
📕This is one action-filled story. Cora and Oliver both face real moments of peril and must think quickly. I found myself wondering what I would do if faced with their dilemmas.
Readers who enjoy the I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis will also want to check out these disaters stories by Jennifer A. Nielsen. Thank you to Scholastic Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
What was it like to live through those catastrophic days in 1906?
Here are some things I really appreciated about this upcoming title:
👧Cora Henshaw is our narrator. She is a scrappy heroine who is not afraid to get her hands dirty. There was a bit too much made of her astrological sign, but she did use her head to think about overcoming the obstacles in her way.
👦Oliver Brennan is an old friend and he provides needed support for Cora in the aftermath of the earthquake. Their families have been feuding so the relationship is complicated and adds to their distress.
🐉The Chinatown population was also deeply affected by the earthquake in addition to the racial strife in the city. Nielsen gives us some insight into how the conflict would have played out before and after the disaster.
📕This is one action-filled story. Cora and Oliver both face real moments of peril and must think quickly. I found myself wondering what I would do if faced with their dilemmas.
Readers who enjoy the I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis will also want to check out these disaters stories by Jennifer A. Nielsen. Thank you to Scholastic Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2025
I went into this book knowing very little about the San Francisco fires, and I loved how it inspired me to look up more about that period in history. The opening chapters were especially interesting to me. I could have spent even more time underground with the girls! I also liked the unique chapter titles noting which parts of the city were burning and at what times. One of my favorite aspects was the cross-cultural friendship that formed despite the societal barriers of the time.
On the other hand, the group of antagonist boys didn’t work as well for me. They felt a bit contrived and appeared so frequently that their presence started to pull me out of the interesting historical fiction part of the story. I understand they were meant to add tension beyond the fires themselves, but their role felt overplayed.
I always enjoy Jennifer A. Nielsen’s writing, and while this wasn’t my favorite of her books, it’s still a solid read. The topic may have made it harder to write a fast moving plot, but the historical details and themes of resilience and friendship make it well worth reading for fans of historical fiction.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
On the other hand, the group of antagonist boys didn’t work as well for me. They felt a bit contrived and appeared so frequently that their presence started to pull me out of the interesting historical fiction part of the story. I understand they were meant to add tension beyond the fires themselves, but their role felt overplayed.
I always enjoy Jennifer A. Nielsen’s writing, and while this wasn’t my favorite of her books, it’s still a solid read. The topic may have made it harder to write a fast moving plot, but the historical details and themes of resilience and friendship make it well worth reading for fans of historical fiction.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 3, 2026
Wow! Jennifer does it again! My teen boys loved reading this book with me and I can't wait to get it for my classroom. My students love historical fiction and every time a new one comes out, they beg for it to be added to the shelves. It's a faster paced, deeper read than the I Survived series and full of history and intriguing characters. We've read a few of Jennifer's books this year and I can't wait to read this one to them.
Cora is such strong and well developed character, even with everything happening to her. I loved the friendships she had to build with Chi and Oliver, while simultaneously trying to find her family after the earthquake. The story jumps right in and has you riveted from the beginning. The facts and storyline together blended well and kept you hooked. The fight for survival after being buried and living through the aftershocks was thrilling and the bravery and friendships created magic. Even when guessing who was good or not, you are cheering them on and finding strength in their story.
This is a must read for older elementary and middle grade students! I'm so glad I was introduced to Jennifer's books, because my kids and my students are hooked!
Cora is such strong and well developed character, even with everything happening to her. I loved the friendships she had to build with Chi and Oliver, while simultaneously trying to find her family after the earthquake. The story jumps right in and has you riveted from the beginning. The facts and storyline together blended well and kept you hooked. The fight for survival after being buried and living through the aftershocks was thrilling and the bravery and friendships created magic. Even when guessing who was good or not, you are cheering them on and finding strength in their story.
This is a must read for older elementary and middle grade students! I'm so glad I was introduced to Jennifer's books, because my kids and my students are hooked!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Have you ever wondered what it was like to live through the earthquake of San Francisco in 1906? Having grown up in California and lived through many earthquakes, it is always interesting to learn more.
Cora is on her way to search the docks for her father when the earthquake hits. She meets a Chinese girl going the same direction and the adventures/horrors begin. As they fight for their lives under the ground, and then above, they both learn about tolerance, friendship, and loyalty. Oliver is an old friend of Cora's , but their parents have had a falling out. He helps in the rescue of the girls, and continues to assist as things go from bad to worse.
During this story we see government officials making decision that feel wrong, like a shoot to kill order on al looters, and other governments officials with understanding and empathy.
As a fan of Jennifer A Nielsen, I am excited to share this book with my Elementary Students!
Thank you to netgalley and scholastic for an early copy to read and leave an honest review.
Cora is on her way to search the docks for her father when the earthquake hits. She meets a Chinese girl going the same direction and the adventures/horrors begin. As they fight for their lives under the ground, and then above, they both learn about tolerance, friendship, and loyalty. Oliver is an old friend of Cora's , but their parents have had a falling out. He helps in the rescue of the girls, and continues to assist as things go from bad to worse.
During this story we see government officials making decision that feel wrong, like a shoot to kill order on al looters, and other governments officials with understanding and empathy.
As a fan of Jennifer A Nielsen, I am excited to share this book with my Elementary Students!
Thank you to netgalley and scholastic for an early copy to read and leave an honest review.
April 22, 2026
"Long afterward, scientists would say it was the worst natural disaster ever to hit a major North American city, an earthquake measuring 7.9 in magnitude."
- huge emphasis on astrological signs
Other themes include: racism re: Chinatown, martial law, underground ships, 40 cents an hour pay, the Golden Hydrant, General Funston dynamited building to 'prevent' the spread of the fire, fighting fires with vinegar
Mama: "Your father should be proud of you."
Oliver: "And you should be proud of Cora..."
Mama: "What gives him the right to tell me how to feel about my children?"
WHAT just happened?
Chapter 26:
"I asked if your family might come stay with us, just until you can find a better option. My father said you'd be welcome there."
And then in Chapter 32:
"Would your father object to them staying"
"No of course not, but only because I never asked him"
"I asked myself whether Joey would ever attempt something like this, then immediately answered my own question. No, he would not. Because he was only two years old." ?!?!
- huge emphasis on astrological signs
Other themes include: racism re: Chinatown, martial law, underground ships, 40 cents an hour pay, the Golden Hydrant, General Funston dynamited building to 'prevent' the spread of the fire, fighting fires with vinegar
Mama: "Your father should be proud of you."
Oliver: "And you should be proud of Cora..."
Mama: "What gives him the right to tell me how to feel about my children?"
WHAT just happened?
Chapter 26:
"I asked if your family might come stay with us, just until you can find a better option. My father said you'd be welcome there."
And then in Chapter 32:
"Would your father object to them staying"
"No of course not, but only because I never asked him"
"I asked myself whether Joey would ever attempt something like this, then immediately answered my own question. No, he would not. Because he was only two years old." ?!?!
April 26, 2026
Oh gosh, where to start....
First of all, the main character is incredibly annoying. She also takes a huge part of the plot for finding her family, and making sure they are safe... But when she does find them, "Oh look they are alive, I can do my own thing", the story won't really get back to them, whatever.
I almost DNF'd it because she kept bringing up "Oh I'm a Capricorn, we're smart, yada yada yada.... It is mentioned in almost every chapter, at least once (I wish I was joking). If it isn't Capricorns, she's lamenting that she wasn't born under a different sign. I didn't care about it the first time, let alone the 25th. I think it's stupid regardless. I didn't think people made as big a deal about horoscopes until the 1920s, but maybe the author was running out of ideas. Who knows?
This is the second book by Jennifer Nielson that I thought was pretty bad (the one about Everest being almost as bad as this one). The story just drags, and the main character is flat and unlikable.
It makes me sad, because I used to LOVE her books.
First of all, the main character is incredibly annoying. She also takes a huge part of the plot for finding her family, and making sure they are safe... But when she does find them, "Oh look they are alive, I can do my own thing", the story won't really get back to them, whatever.
I almost DNF'd it because she kept bringing up "Oh I'm a Capricorn, we're smart, yada yada yada.... It is mentioned in almost every chapter, at least once (I wish I was joking). If it isn't Capricorns, she's lamenting that she wasn't born under a different sign. I didn't care about it the first time, let alone the 25th. I think it's stupid regardless. I didn't think people made as big a deal about horoscopes until the 1920s, but maybe the author was running out of ideas. Who knows?
This is the second book by Jennifer Nielson that I thought was pretty bad (the one about Everest being almost as bad as this one). The story just drags, and the main character is flat and unlikable.
It makes me sad, because I used to LOVE her books.
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