History's Mysteries: Ship of Dreams

History’s Mysteries: Ship of Dreams

Martin, Donna L.

Story Catcher Publishing

Knoxville, TN

c2019

            Margaret, age 10, is excited to see the Titanic launch. Her mama, a God-fearing woman, gives her a journal. Her entry begins each chapter. Her parents are poor and they mostly eat potatoes. Only potatoes. Mama counts the pieces of coal to make sure there is enough to fix dinner. Yet, when Mama wants some apple tarts, she sends Margaret to the store. The store owner has the deepest Irish dialect. When the Titanic doesn’t sail, Margaret worries the Coalies will go on strike. Her papa works hard as a tally man providing provisions on the White Star Line, Titanic.

            Her papa conveniently forgets his lunch daily and she must take it to him at the docks. While she visits, she finds friendship in a boy from Russia, Sasha. He and his family plan to set sail soon. Margaret finds all sorts of friends at the docks. Will she see the Titanic sail? Will Sasha and his family set sail? The author, Donna L. Martin not only provides history’s mysteries, but includes: the rest of the story (with true facts), discussion questions, and suggested reading. Be sure to check out her other books in the series.

*Preview by Deborah Bates Cavitt