Partially based on actual testimony of Titanic survivors, Walter Lord’s story of the night the Titanic sank is said to be one of the most accurate and gripping of its type. The descriptive vocabulary in this book makes the imagery far superior to that of James Cameron’s gushy movie. It also provides a much more genuine account than the movie. Since it has no need for an unnecessary Hollywood climax or happy ending, A Night to Remember is a book made for the realistic reader.
Review
I recommend this book for anyone who can handle the harsh reality of this terrible tragedy without a preoccupation for unnecessary gush. A Night to Remember is more of a historical document than a novel so is prepared for the authenticity of a cold and treacherous evening in 1912. Basically, if you thought the movie was a dried out chick flick with something to be desired, this is an excellent choice for you.
“The night was a magnificent confirmation of women and children first, yet somehow the loss rate was higher for the third class children than the first class men.”
“…the poop deck, normally third class space…was suddenly becoming more attractive to all kinds of people.”