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The Titanic Tunnel
‘It’s Titanic – aren’t you curious? No one alive today has seen it like that.’ Emmie & Jack are on a school trip with a difference.
Visiting Belfast to see where Titanic was built, they step back to 1912 and discover the great ship itself. All too soon, they find out that the way home is blocked, and Jack gets dragged off to work by one of the crew. Who is the mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows, and can they solve his time riddle to escape from the doomed ship before it is too late…?
Visiting Belfast to see where Titanic was built, they step back to 1912 and discover the great ship itself. All too soon, they find out that the way home is blocked, and Jack gets dragged off to work by one of the crew. Who is the mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows, and can they solve his time riddle to escape from the doomed ship before it is too late…?
262 pages, Paperback
Published May 12, 2022
8 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Glen Blackwell
4 books17 followersI have worked in finance for many years. I wrote and published my first children's book after getting the inspiration reading to my own children. I love being able to help with the escapism that can be found through books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 26, 2022
I love anything to do with the Titanic, so when I saw this title and the beautiful cover for the book, I knew I had to read it. I recently visited The Titanic Exhibit in Las Vegas and recommend if you ever visit, make sure that it is one of your stops. It offers lots of history with some real-life items from the ship including pieces of the ship itself.
The book is geared towards middle-grade-age children to introduce them to a part of history they may not know about, but I think the book can be enjoyed by any age and has a lot of facts about the Titanic that many may not know about.
In the story, we follow two children, Emmie & Jack, on a field trip to Belfast Ireland to see where the Titanic was built. During the field trip, the two separate from the rest of the group and are transported through a tunnel to 1912 where they themselves are on board the Titanic.....the author’s use of time travel to tell this story is very unique. It will keep a child's interest as well as any grown-up!!
You, as well as your children/nieces/nephews, won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough to find out what happens to Emmie & Jack. Will they make it off the ship or will this be their last voyage?
Blackwell has thoroughly researched the Titanic and gives the reader a vivid description of what it was like on board the ill-fated voyage. The descriptions are so detailed that you can actually visualize in your mind what it must have been like and feel the tragedy in your heart as it took place.
The book is geared towards middle-grade-age children to introduce them to a part of history they may not know about, but I think the book can be enjoyed by any age and has a lot of facts about the Titanic that many may not know about.
In the story, we follow two children, Emmie & Jack, on a field trip to Belfast Ireland to see where the Titanic was built. During the field trip, the two separate from the rest of the group and are transported through a tunnel to 1912 where they themselves are on board the Titanic.....the author’s use of time travel to tell this story is very unique. It will keep a child's interest as well as any grown-up!!
You, as well as your children/nieces/nephews, won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough to find out what happens to Emmie & Jack. Will they make it off the ship or will this be their last voyage?
Blackwell has thoroughly researched the Titanic and gives the reader a vivid description of what it was like on board the ill-fated voyage. The descriptions are so detailed that you can actually visualize in your mind what it must have been like and feel the tragedy in your heart as it took place.
August 6, 2022
I was unaware before beginning this book that this book resides inside of a series, all featuring the same duo travelling back into pivotal moments of history. Not having read the former instalment did nothing to halt my enjoyment or understanding of what occurred here.
Emmie and Jack begin the novel on a school-trip but quickly find themselves tumbling back in time and on-board the infamous ship, the Titanic. They are aware of its sinking and the date this occurred on, meaning they become increasingly anxious as time ticks on and they remain unable to escape the fated vessel.
This was an interesting and informative read, which I thought did a brilliant job of illuminating history for the younger reader. It explored, with sensitivity, all that occurred as well as some of the figures on-board the ship. Emmie and Jack were easily lovable protagonists and their adventures on-board were executed gracefully. I would have no hesitations in recommending this to the younger readers in my life.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Glen Blackwell, and the publisher, Zoetrope Books, for this opportunity.
Emmie and Jack begin the novel on a school-trip but quickly find themselves tumbling back in time and on-board the infamous ship, the Titanic. They are aware of its sinking and the date this occurred on, meaning they become increasingly anxious as time ticks on and they remain unable to escape the fated vessel.
This was an interesting and informative read, which I thought did a brilliant job of illuminating history for the younger reader. It explored, with sensitivity, all that occurred as well as some of the figures on-board the ship. Emmie and Jack were easily lovable protagonists and their adventures on-board were executed gracefully. I would have no hesitations in recommending this to the younger readers in my life.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Glen Blackwell, and the publisher, Zoetrope Books, for this opportunity.
June 13, 2022
Imagine going back in time to 1912…You find yourself on the famous ship Titanic, which you’ve read and studied about. You know the outcome of that fateful April night, but in order not to change the future, the fate of Titanic must not be made known to anyone on board…
Excellent historical fiction for middle-grade readers! I think reading this would be a great motivation for kids to find out even more information about the Titanic.
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley. All opinions are strictly my own.*
Excellent historical fiction for middle-grade readers! I think reading this would be a great motivation for kids to find out even more information about the Titanic.
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley. All opinions are strictly my own.*
May 1, 2022
The Titanic Tunnel
by Glen Blackwell
BooksGoSocial
Pub Date: May 12
The author writes compelling fiction that makes history sizzle for middle graders. His debut, The Blitz Bus, showed young readers how it was when Nazis bombed Britain during WWII. His latest brings the same contemporary MCs, Emmie and Jack, on a time-slip trip on the Titanic.
Blackwell's well-researched passages grip as he spins the story of their class visit to Belfast, Ireland, to see where the ship was built. Somehow, the two get separated from the group and find a time portal to April, 1912 ... and themselves aboard the Titanic already at sea.
I'm an adult and tore through this gem in one sitting. I HAD to know if they survived the ill-fated trip and made it back home through time. Middle graders will be entranced too and wonder with me, "Where will Glen take us next?"
Thanks to the author, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#TheTimeTunnel #GlenBlackwell #BooksGoSocial #NetGalley "TimeSlipFiction
"MiddleGradeTitanicNovel #MGhistoricalfiction" "TitanicFiction "bookstagramcommunity"
by Glen Blackwell
BooksGoSocial
Pub Date: May 12
The author writes compelling fiction that makes history sizzle for middle graders. His debut, The Blitz Bus, showed young readers how it was when Nazis bombed Britain during WWII. His latest brings the same contemporary MCs, Emmie and Jack, on a time-slip trip on the Titanic.
Blackwell's well-researched passages grip as he spins the story of their class visit to Belfast, Ireland, to see where the ship was built. Somehow, the two get separated from the group and find a time portal to April, 1912 ... and themselves aboard the Titanic already at sea.
I'm an adult and tore through this gem in one sitting. I HAD to know if they survived the ill-fated trip and made it back home through time. Middle graders will be entranced too and wonder with me, "Where will Glen take us next?"
Thanks to the author, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#TheTimeTunnel #GlenBlackwell #BooksGoSocial #NetGalley "TimeSlipFiction
"MiddleGradeTitanicNovel #MGhistoricalfiction" "TitanicFiction "bookstagramcommunity"
June 22, 2022
This is the second book by this author that features a team of youth that end up time traveling and experiencing some moments of history. The first book was about the Blitz during the war, and this time it was about seeing the Titanic before it sank.
Jack and Emmie are a little mischievous when they sneak off from their class and enter a tunnel that lands them on the Titanic. They see it as a big adventure and the chance to let their teacher know some facts that may not be known. However, how will they get back to their time? Thankfully, there is a guide there that gives them hints and tells them what they must do to return to their time. It isn't an easy task considering how people were evacuated on the ship, but they are successful in their mission.
While this book is written for middle-grade readers, anyone could enjoy this story. There are many facts peppered throughout about the Titanic, the passengers, and what it was like on the ship during the maiden voyage. I felt like the author did a good job researching the details to present an accurate representation of what might have happened in 1912. There is a lot of excitement for the characters and the author brings the reader into the story, and I felt like I was there on the ship with Jack and Emmie.
We give this book 5 paws up.
Jack and Emmie are a little mischievous when they sneak off from their class and enter a tunnel that lands them on the Titanic. They see it as a big adventure and the chance to let their teacher know some facts that may not be known. However, how will they get back to their time? Thankfully, there is a guide there that gives them hints and tells them what they must do to return to their time. It isn't an easy task considering how people were evacuated on the ship, but they are successful in their mission.
While this book is written for middle-grade readers, anyone could enjoy this story. There are many facts peppered throughout about the Titanic, the passengers, and what it was like on the ship during the maiden voyage. I felt like the author did a good job researching the details to present an accurate representation of what might have happened in 1912. There is a lot of excitement for the characters and the author brings the reader into the story, and I felt like I was there on the ship with Jack and Emmie.
We give this book 5 paws up.
January 23, 2023
This is the second book in the series, I am kind of hoping there will be third book as to explain some things that happened in this one.
We are following another adventure of these two friends who find themselves stranded on the Titanic before it sinks. And they must accomplish something in order to go back to their own time.
I liked the ending a lot but unfortunately throughout the entire book it just seemed like they were always looking for someone (each other, 2 kids, a friend, the stranger they met). And oh yes, the stranger. A mysterious man who they never met before just appears out of nowhere, and just happens to know everything that is going on and what they need to do to fix it.....I hope there is a third book to explain that 😅.
I did like the climax at the end, and the sacrifices the friends made to save others. As well as I did like the setting, and taking a peek at the behind the scenes of the Titanic.
*thank you to #netgalley for a previous copy of this book to read and review.
We are following another adventure of these two friends who find themselves stranded on the Titanic before it sinks. And they must accomplish something in order to go back to their own time.
I liked the ending a lot but unfortunately throughout the entire book it just seemed like they were always looking for someone (each other, 2 kids, a friend, the stranger they met). And oh yes, the stranger. A mysterious man who they never met before just appears out of nowhere, and just happens to know everything that is going on and what they need to do to fix it.....I hope there is a third book to explain that 😅.
I did like the climax at the end, and the sacrifices the friends made to save others. As well as I did like the setting, and taking a peek at the behind the scenes of the Titanic.
*thank you to #netgalley for a previous copy of this book to read and review.
May 23, 2025
This was so boring.
Considering Scalzi was next up on my reading order, this popping up as required reading for my next English module wasn’t exactly doing it any favours.
The premise sounded cool but it was far from it. It was an absolute drag to get through (even though I finished it in two days) and I couldn’t even imagine the scenes the author was trying to describe.
To make matters even worse, I have to relive in for the next four weeks at school. I suppose reading two chapters about a lad washing dishes helps me reminisce on the Thomas Wright days.
Considering Scalzi was next up on my reading order, this popping up as required reading for my next English module wasn’t exactly doing it any favours.
The premise sounded cool but it was far from it. It was an absolute drag to get through (even though I finished it in two days) and I couldn’t even imagine the scenes the author was trying to describe.
To make matters even worse, I have to relive in for the next four weeks at school. I suppose reading two chapters about a lad washing dishes helps me reminisce on the Thomas Wright days.
October 24, 2022
What a cute read! I literally started and finished this today. It's a fab book to read with kids...it's full of interesting facts about the Titanic that children will devour without knowing they are literally learning something 🤣
I love any story that goes back in time and I'm always looking for books to read with my own kids and my class. This being historical is a bonus.
We mustn't forget though that the tale of the Titanic is a tragic one and being a children's book, I'm so glad that it is dealt with sensitively. It doesn't skirt around the sadness of the tragedy but it highlights it in a manageable way.
A magical, fun read full of facts and adventure!
I love any story that goes back in time and I'm always looking for books to read with my own kids and my class. This being historical is a bonus.
We mustn't forget though that the tale of the Titanic is a tragic one and being a children's book, I'm so glad that it is dealt with sensitively. It doesn't skirt around the sadness of the tragedy but it highlights it in a manageable way.
A magical, fun read full of facts and adventure!
July 26, 2022
The Titanic Tunnel by Glen Blackwell
#NetGalley #The Titanic Tunnel
Emmie and Jack are back for a new time travel adventure.
This middle grade story follows Emmie and Jack who need to rescue Mary.
The way the book is written is like we are actually there with the kids on the ship. Vivid descriptions and lots of research must have been done, but it does not feel like reading a history book.
So the reader learns while the story unfolds but it is a joy to get those facts sprinkled into the book.
I've always had a fascination for the "unsinkable" titanic so this book was a pure pleasure to read.
The reader will connect with Jack and Emmie and will care about the passengers and wonder who will survive, if anyone will.
The suspense was great in wondering if Jack and Emmie would return to their own time or perish with the ship.
I had to know if Mary got rescued or not, and of course what would happen to Emmie and Jack.
Upon finishing the book I went on a search for Mary, to see if she really existed and what her fate was.
Highly recommended!
4****
Thank You, NetGalley and BooksGoSocial.
#NetGalley #The Titanic Tunnel
Emmie and Jack are back for a new time travel adventure.
This middle grade story follows Emmie and Jack who need to rescue Mary.
The way the book is written is like we are actually there with the kids on the ship. Vivid descriptions and lots of research must have been done, but it does not feel like reading a history book.
So the reader learns while the story unfolds but it is a joy to get those facts sprinkled into the book.
I've always had a fascination for the "unsinkable" titanic so this book was a pure pleasure to read.
The reader will connect with Jack and Emmie and will care about the passengers and wonder who will survive, if anyone will.
The suspense was great in wondering if Jack and Emmie would return to their own time or perish with the ship.
I had to know if Mary got rescued or not, and of course what would happen to Emmie and Jack.
Upon finishing the book I went on a search for Mary, to see if she really existed and what her fate was.
Highly recommended!
4****
Thank You, NetGalley and BooksGoSocial.
April 14, 2022
Glen's books are an absolute delight to read. I thoroughly enjoyed The Blitz Bus and this little gem didn't disappoint either.
The books are primarily aimed at the younger generation and to introduce them to their history, but I think they can be enjoyed by any age.
Very well researched and written in a way to bring history to life, for younger eyes to be educated and others to be reminded.
The characters of Emmie and Jack were great and I loved following them on their step back to 1912. I can't wait to see where we're taken next.
I have an affinity for Titanic, because I used to work in a casino which was the train station where everybody boarded for their fateful journey. Over the road in Oxford Street, The Grapes public house is where they filmed the scenes with DiCaprio (Jack) as he played cards to win his passage onto the ship. And now I live in Southampton, where we have a Titanic museum and so much history with the ship.
Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The books are primarily aimed at the younger generation and to introduce them to their history, but I think they can be enjoyed by any age.
Very well researched and written in a way to bring history to life, for younger eyes to be educated and others to be reminded.
The characters of Emmie and Jack were great and I loved following them on their step back to 1912. I can't wait to see where we're taken next.
I have an affinity for Titanic, because I used to work in a casino which was the train station where everybody boarded for their fateful journey. Over the road in Oxford Street, The Grapes public house is where they filmed the scenes with DiCaprio (Jack) as he played cards to win his passage onto the ship. And now I live in Southampton, where we have a Titanic museum and so much history with the ship.
Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 9, 2022
A very nicely done time travel story that tells the story of Titanic to younger readers. It's engaging, has two very adventurous and courageous protagonists and of course has some historical tidbits woven into it.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy I got in exchange for an honest review!
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy I got in exchange for an honest review!
June 5, 2022
Glen Blackwell’s novel, The Titanic Tunnel, chronicles Emmie and Jack’s adventure on the Titanic. These two students have been studying the subject of the Titanic in their history class. As part of their studies, Mr. Hughes, their history teacher, takes Emmie and Jack’s class on a field trip to visit the landmarks (the large, yellow frames, the museum, and the dry dock) where the Titanic and the Olympic, the sister ship of the Titanic, were built.
As Mr. Hughes is talking to his students about what they can expect, Emmie sees a row of warehouse buildings that catch her attention. More importantly, there is a male violinist who is playing a haunting song. Being exceptionally curious and drawn to the song, Emmie decides that she and Jack should investigate one of the shops. As they get to the window, they see words that are directly connected to the Titanic. All of a sudden, Jack sees a set of steps leading to a tunnel. Feeling adventurous, Emmie and Jack enter the tunnel, and the journey begins.
There are students who are not fond of history because they say it is boring. Blackwell does just the opposite, as he brings history to life. He allows his audience to travel back to the time of the Titanic to experience some of the actual events. Blackwell provides descriptive details that help them to visualize the details in the novel. In other words, he really paints the picture for them.
This novel is not a difficult read, as it contains well-written sentences and short paragraphs. Oh! Because there is so much dialogue and action, readers will not have time to get tired of reading. In fact, they will keep turning the pages. In addition, there is an underlying mystery that takes place. In order to solve it, Emmie and Jack must complete a task. If this task is not accomplished, then lives will be changed forever, including Emmie and Jack’s.
What makes this novel so realistic is the research Blackwell conducted to write it. Again, he includes actual events that took place on the Titanic. For example, Emmie becomes friends with Mary Kelly, who eventually becomes an important staple in history. At the end of novel, Blackwell also includes information focusing on the discovery of the Titanic, the last survivor, and a lucky fireman.
Overall, this novel is exciting, realistic, and well-written. It is an excellent way to teach history, especially to students who dislike history. I highly recommend reading The Titanic Tunnel.
As Mr. Hughes is talking to his students about what they can expect, Emmie sees a row of warehouse buildings that catch her attention. More importantly, there is a male violinist who is playing a haunting song. Being exceptionally curious and drawn to the song, Emmie decides that she and Jack should investigate one of the shops. As they get to the window, they see words that are directly connected to the Titanic. All of a sudden, Jack sees a set of steps leading to a tunnel. Feeling adventurous, Emmie and Jack enter the tunnel, and the journey begins.
There are students who are not fond of history because they say it is boring. Blackwell does just the opposite, as he brings history to life. He allows his audience to travel back to the time of the Titanic to experience some of the actual events. Blackwell provides descriptive details that help them to visualize the details in the novel. In other words, he really paints the picture for them.
This novel is not a difficult read, as it contains well-written sentences and short paragraphs. Oh! Because there is so much dialogue and action, readers will not have time to get tired of reading. In fact, they will keep turning the pages. In addition, there is an underlying mystery that takes place. In order to solve it, Emmie and Jack must complete a task. If this task is not accomplished, then lives will be changed forever, including Emmie and Jack’s.
What makes this novel so realistic is the research Blackwell conducted to write it. Again, he includes actual events that took place on the Titanic. For example, Emmie becomes friends with Mary Kelly, who eventually becomes an important staple in history. At the end of novel, Blackwell also includes information focusing on the discovery of the Titanic, the last survivor, and a lucky fireman.
Overall, this novel is exciting, realistic, and well-written. It is an excellent way to teach history, especially to students who dislike history. I highly recommend reading The Titanic Tunnel.
June 1, 2022
Emmie & Jack are on a school trip with a difference. Visiting Belfast to see where Titanic was built, they step back to 1912 and discover the great ship itself. All too soon, they find out that the way home is blocked, and Jack gets dragged off to work by one of the crew. Who is the mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows, and can they solve his time riddle to escape from the doomed ship before it is too late...?
Rating 4/5
• Middle Grade
• Time Travel
• Adventure
When Emmie and Jack take a school trip to Belfast to visit the site where the Titanic was built, they suddenly find themselves transported back to the famous ship. Initially they are intrigued and want to explore but soon realise how much danger they are in when they find their route back to the present is blocked. They then meet passenger Mary and discover their way home may be to save her. However, in the process they find themselves in danger as they edge closer to the ship sinking.
I, like many people have always been interested in the story of the Titanic. I also love time travel books, so this immediately appealed to me. When I started reading, I realised this was actually the second book in the series. Despite this, it didn’t hinder my enjoyment. You can definitely read this without the reading the first and it doesn’t give away too much about Emmie and Jacks previous adventures.
This was such an enjoyable story as we watched Emmie and Jack explore the Titanic from the crew areas to the first-class cabins. It was filled with beautiful descriptions of the ship that really bought the setting to life. It was so striking to see the contrasts the children experience between these classed areas. The children then meet a little girls call Mary and have to aid her in finding her two lost brothers and ensuring she survives. I really appreciated that this book did consider how terrifying it must have been for the children. Although it was interesting for them to explore the ship the danger was never far from their minds. It was quite touching how they acknowledged and realised the people they had met were not going to survive the trip. I think it served as a good reminder of how tragic the Titanic incident was.
I really enjoyed my time reading this book. I liked Emmie and Jack and like following their time on the Titanic. I think the author did a great job of making the book engaging and fun but conveying what an awful tragedy this was. I would definitely recommend it to children who are interested in the Titanic as a really accessible informative read. However, I also found it great so I also think an adult could just easily enjoy it. I was really pleased to see book one involved Emmie and Jack travelling to wartime, another historical period I am interested in.
Rating 4/5
• Middle Grade
• Time Travel
• Adventure
When Emmie and Jack take a school trip to Belfast to visit the site where the Titanic was built, they suddenly find themselves transported back to the famous ship. Initially they are intrigued and want to explore but soon realise how much danger they are in when they find their route back to the present is blocked. They then meet passenger Mary and discover their way home may be to save her. However, in the process they find themselves in danger as they edge closer to the ship sinking.
I, like many people have always been interested in the story of the Titanic. I also love time travel books, so this immediately appealed to me. When I started reading, I realised this was actually the second book in the series. Despite this, it didn’t hinder my enjoyment. You can definitely read this without the reading the first and it doesn’t give away too much about Emmie and Jacks previous adventures.
This was such an enjoyable story as we watched Emmie and Jack explore the Titanic from the crew areas to the first-class cabins. It was filled with beautiful descriptions of the ship that really bought the setting to life. It was so striking to see the contrasts the children experience between these classed areas. The children then meet a little girls call Mary and have to aid her in finding her two lost brothers and ensuring she survives. I really appreciated that this book did consider how terrifying it must have been for the children. Although it was interesting for them to explore the ship the danger was never far from their minds. It was quite touching how they acknowledged and realised the people they had met were not going to survive the trip. I think it served as a good reminder of how tragic the Titanic incident was.
I really enjoyed my time reading this book. I liked Emmie and Jack and like following their time on the Titanic. I think the author did a great job of making the book engaging and fun but conveying what an awful tragedy this was. I would definitely recommend it to children who are interested in the Titanic as a really accessible informative read. However, I also found it great so I also think an adult could just easily enjoy it. I was really pleased to see book one involved Emmie and Jack travelling to wartime, another historical period I am interested in.
May 23, 2022
When I was a 4th grade teacher, I had a student who was fascinated by Titanic's story. He knew all about Dr. Ballard and read everything he could on the subject. The Titanic Tunnel is the book that I wish I had had on my classroom shelves back then so I could have handed it to Ethan to devour. (It probably would have captured the interest of a few of my other students, too!)
Aimed at later elementary/middle school readers, I think The Titanic Tunnel is great for students who have outgrown The Magic Tree House series and are looking for more history-driven adventures. I didn't realize it was a series when I started it, but I think it stands alone perfectly well, too. I did find myself wishing for illustrations or diagrams of the Titanic's layout to go along with Blackwell's fantastic descriptions, but I do like books that inspire further research.
I'm excited to see where Jack and Emmie go next!
(Curious: I cannot find anything about a Mary Kelly who had anything to do with penicillin in World War II. There was a Titanic survivor named Mary Kelly who was 22 at the time of the sinking who has her own amazing story -- including climbing through the ventilation ducts. I wonder why the author changed a few details of a real person's life without explaining why in an author's note at the end.)
(I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
Aimed at later elementary/middle school readers, I think The Titanic Tunnel is great for students who have outgrown The Magic Tree House series and are looking for more history-driven adventures. I didn't realize it was a series when I started it, but I think it stands alone perfectly well, too. I did find myself wishing for illustrations or diagrams of the Titanic's layout to go along with Blackwell's fantastic descriptions, but I do like books that inspire further research.
I'm excited to see where Jack and Emmie go next!
(Curious: I cannot find anything about a Mary Kelly who had anything to do with penicillin in World War II. There was a Titanic survivor named Mary Kelly who was 22 at the time of the sinking who has her own amazing story -- including climbing through the ventilation ducts. I wonder why the author changed a few details of a real person's life without explaining why in an author's note at the end.)
(I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2022
This is a fun middle grade read for historical fiction readers!
Jack and Emmie are high school students who are on a class trip in Ireland to visit the Titanic Museum. They are transported back in time to the voyage trip of the luxury liner and can't go back home until they've completed a mission, and fixing a mistake they made when they visited another historical event.
The author does an excellent job giving readers a glimpse of the magnificent ship and Emmie and Jack explore and try to stay out of the way of the crew and passengers. There are details included about the interior that have a refreshing viewpoint, that as seen through the eyes of children.
Historical details are relayed about the night the Titanic sunk, though not in a graphic way that may disturb young readers. Emmie and Jack's escape from the night the ship sinks is dramatic, and an interesting way to get them home again.
This is an easy read for avid middle grade readers who are on the older end of readership, though young middle grade readers would enjoy the story too.
Some historical facts are included at the end of the story, which is a nice touch.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through Net Galley. all opinions expressed are my own.
Jack and Emmie are high school students who are on a class trip in Ireland to visit the Titanic Museum. They are transported back in time to the voyage trip of the luxury liner and can't go back home until they've completed a mission, and fixing a mistake they made when they visited another historical event.
The author does an excellent job giving readers a glimpse of the magnificent ship and Emmie and Jack explore and try to stay out of the way of the crew and passengers. There are details included about the interior that have a refreshing viewpoint, that as seen through the eyes of children.
Historical details are relayed about the night the Titanic sunk, though not in a graphic way that may disturb young readers. Emmie and Jack's escape from the night the ship sinks is dramatic, and an interesting way to get them home again.
This is an easy read for avid middle grade readers who are on the older end of readership, though young middle grade readers would enjoy the story too.
Some historical facts are included at the end of the story, which is a nice touch.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through Net Galley. all opinions expressed are my own.
June 26, 2022
Jack and Emmie have weird adventures. Today they're going to see the dockyard where Titanic was built and The Museum around it. There's a musician playing - he packs up and walks away. They follow, through a door, into a tunnel and onto Titanic.
Jack gets mistaken for a kitchen worker and dragged off. Emmie is on her own on a ship at sea that is supposed to sink. She has to find Jack, but meets a stranger who tells her to look in different places to find the answer, but also she meets a girl, Mary, from 3rd class whose brothers have gone missing (they got in a lift - when the doors opened again they weren't there). The stranger tells her they must save Mary's life in order to free themselves. She manages to find Jack again, only for the three of them to get caught and Jack to be taken back to the kitchen and Emmie and Mary locked in a cupboard. They escape!
Again being reunited with Jack but the alarms are going off. Emmie's watch tells her they are close to sinking. Can they get Mary and her family into a life boat from third class? Can they get off?
This is a really good book. The ending was so close. I will be looking to buy this for school. In addition I will be reading Blitz Bus which has been on my Kindle for ages!
Jack gets mistaken for a kitchen worker and dragged off. Emmie is on her own on a ship at sea that is supposed to sink. She has to find Jack, but meets a stranger who tells her to look in different places to find the answer, but also she meets a girl, Mary, from 3rd class whose brothers have gone missing (they got in a lift - when the doors opened again they weren't there). The stranger tells her they must save Mary's life in order to free themselves. She manages to find Jack again, only for the three of them to get caught and Jack to be taken back to the kitchen and Emmie and Mary locked in a cupboard. They escape!
Again being reunited with Jack but the alarms are going off. Emmie's watch tells her they are close to sinking. Can they get Mary and her family into a life boat from third class? Can they get off?
This is a really good book. The ending was so close. I will be looking to buy this for school. In addition I will be reading Blitz Bus which has been on my Kindle for ages!
April 24, 2022
A book geared to younger readers, but full of little gems of historical interest and fact concerning the fateful sailing of the Titanic, and we are there for the hours leading up to April 15, 1912.
The author has two children Emmie & Jack on a field trip to Belfast Ireland to see where the Titanic as constructed. Our curious pair soon split from their group and open a door to the past.
Now we are set for an adventure, and and adventure these two sure have! After a while, with the clock ticking, you will be wondering if these two will be added to the casualty list!
This book is geared to 9 - 12 year olds, but as an adult I loved reading this quick read of just 264 pages, filled with facts about this ship!
I also had to know what happened to these characters, and then Mary!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher BooksGoSocial, and was not required to give a positive review.
The author has two children Emmie & Jack on a field trip to Belfast Ireland to see where the Titanic as constructed. Our curious pair soon split from their group and open a door to the past.
Now we are set for an adventure, and and adventure these two sure have! After a while, with the clock ticking, you will be wondering if these two will be added to the casualty list!
This book is geared to 9 - 12 year olds, but as an adult I loved reading this quick read of just 264 pages, filled with facts about this ship!
I also had to know what happened to these characters, and then Mary!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher BooksGoSocial, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 5, 2022
The Titanic Tunnel is a children’s historical fiction novel written by author Glen Blackwell.
The Titanic Tunnel takes the reader onto the Titanic vicariously through Jack & Emmie. From the time of its building to its demise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this chapter book, even though I felt sorry each time Jack had kitchen duty. It all began while Jack and Emmie were on a school field trip. They went through a time-slip tunnel and experienced the Titanic as it might have been.
The Titanic Tunnel is recommended for ages 9-12. I believe even older readers will want to experience the Titanic through the eyes of Jack & Emmie.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
The Titanic Tunnel takes the reader onto the Titanic vicariously through Jack & Emmie. From the time of its building to its demise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this chapter book, even though I felt sorry each time Jack had kitchen duty. It all began while Jack and Emmie were on a school field trip. They went through a time-slip tunnel and experienced the Titanic as it might have been.
The Titanic Tunnel is recommended for ages 9-12. I believe even older readers will want to experience the Titanic through the eyes of Jack & Emmie.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
October 31, 2022
I have not read the first book, The Blitz Bus, yet, so I cannot comment on how the characters have developed from the first to the second book. However, The Titanic Tunnel references the events of the first book enough that you get a sense of what the characters went through without the author using an info dump to explain it to the readers. The characters are well-rounded and can hold the plot up, and I love how Jack and Emmie interact on the RMS Titanic. Glen Blackwell used the third-person perspective, which helps greatly as Jack and Emmie split up multiple times through events outside of their control. The plot is fast-paced but also gives Jack and Emmie a chance to recover from events and form new plans as the story progresses. The author effectively brings the Titanic to life, and I cannot wait to read the first book.
June 2, 2022
3 1/2 stars. On a school trip to learn more about the Titanic, two children explore a tunnel and end up on the Titanic. A great premise and opportunity to learn more about the Titanic. Their adventure takes them all over the ship from the staff quarters to the posh upper levels. They encounter wealthy and not-so wealthy travelers, and interact with the crew. A mysterious passenger helps them discover the problems they must solve if they’re to return to the future. A good title for younger students interested in history. As an adult, I found the writing a bit stilted and the descriptions of the ship just a bit overdone. Curious to read the author’s earlier book. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a preview copy.
June 29, 2022
Emmie and Jack end up on the Titanic, the ill-fated ship, a few hours before it is struck by an iceberg and sank to the bottom of the ocean. In their efforts to find their way home Jack is mistaken for a server and Emmie meets a girl who is searching for her two missing brothers. It is up to Emmie and Jack to find her brothers, try to save her and her family, and find their way home: all without letting their hearts lead them to save everyone and change the tides of time forever.
I enjoyed the story and was pleased to read about the ship from an "insider's" perspective. I would add it to the curriculum as a fictional narrative to pair with a nonfiction piece.
I was given the opportunity to read this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the story and was pleased to read about the ship from an "insider's" perspective. I would add it to the curriculum as a fictional narrative to pair with a nonfiction piece.
I was given the opportunity to read this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2025
The Titanic Tunnel is a thrilling, time-bending adventure that hooks readers from the very first page. Glen Blackwell brilliantly combines historical detail with imaginative storytelling, transporting readers to 1912 Belfast and onto the deck of the legendary Titanic.
Emmie and Jack’s journey is full of suspense, mystery, and clever twists, with every moment keeping you on edge. The interplay of history, time travel, and the looming disaster of the Titanic is expertly balanced, creating a gripping story that’s both educational and heart-pounding. Young adult and middle-grade readers alike will be captivated by the clever puzzles and emotional stakes embedded throughout the narrative.
Emmie and Jack’s journey is full of suspense, mystery, and clever twists, with every moment keeping you on edge. The interplay of history, time travel, and the looming disaster of the Titanic is expertly balanced, creating a gripping story that’s both educational and heart-pounding. Young adult and middle-grade readers alike will be captivated by the clever puzzles and emotional stakes embedded throughout the narrative.
April 19, 2022
A clever, slightly frenzied, time travel adventure. Jack and Emmie are on a class trip to the shipyards of Belfast and end up spiraling back in time as passengers on the ill-fated Titanic. They meet some other children and are the only ones to know that the clock is ticking before the ship hits an iceberg. Well done and unique. I think this is the kind of book that would definitely mean more to a student who already has a foundational knowledge of the Titanic, its more famous passengers, and the class distinctions during the sinking. Thank you BooksGoSocial for the advanced copy.
May 16, 2022
Love Titanic! I enjoyed being aboard this lovely ship once again. No matter who writes Titanic's story she will always fascinate me along with her passengers. I wish I could save every one of them. Such a fun time travel mystery that was so good that I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend this for fans of the Titanic My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2022
A middle grade story in which Jack and Emmie find themselves on a time travel to the Titanic. This story is the second one for Jack and Emmie but is also able to be read as a stand-alone story. Jack and Emmie were likeable and friendly characters, trying to solve the mystery of why they are on the Titanic and how they can get home. I love the idea of heading back in time to observe history and Glen Blackwell does a great job conveying it throughout these pages. The story is great for the middle grade readers who wants a little history and a little adventure. I will be checking out the other book of Jack and Emmie. Thank you to NetGalley and Zoetrope Books for an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
June 4, 2022
An enjoyable follow up to Jack and Emmie's adventures in The Blitz Bus, this time aboard the famed Titanic ship. Readers will definitely feel the increased pressure Jack and Emmie face knowing the fate of the Titanic. The ship is going to sink. Can they get off in time?
For young readers who like time travel and history, this is a great read!
For young readers who like time travel and history, this is a great read!
May 15, 2022
The Titanic Tunnel by Glen Blackwell. An amazing time travel book where the characters travel to the titanic and have to escape to go back to their time before the TItanic disaster occurs. I would recommend this book to any of my grandchildren in middle school.
July 11, 2022
Emmie and Jack once again time travel this time to the Titanic. They go on a class trip to see where the Titanic was built, while looking around they notice something interesting. This book will take you back to what it must have been like to be aboard the ship on that fatal trip.
August 21, 2025
“The Titanic Tunnel” by Glenn Blackwell is an exciting story. It has interesting characters, plenty of mystery, and lots of adventure. The writing keeps you hooked from start to finish, making it a fun and enjoyable book for all readers of all ages.
April 27, 2022
The Titanic Tunnel is a fun, YA time-traveling adventure. I found the writing style a little distracting at first (possibly British English rules?), but managed to put that aside to still enjoy the tale. It requires suspending belief a little bit (then again, what time travel adventure doesn't?), but I can see it being an easy way to help middle schoolers learn a little more about this slice of history.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
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