What do you think?
Rate this book
The Stars in April
Based on the True Story of Twelve-Year-Old Titanic Survivor, Ruth Becker
"Sometimes we have to go a long way to find out who we are."
The year is 1912. When doctors in India are unable to treat her baby brother’s illness, Ruth’s missionary parents decide there is one solution: move her mother and the children across the world—to Michigan.
But India is the only home Ruth knows. In a matter of days, she must leave Papa and all she loves behind, abandon her dream of one day playing violin in the Calcutta Orchestra, and embark on a rollicking, four-week journey across the Arabian and Mediterranean Seas, followed by the voyage to New York aboard the luxurious, ill-fated RMS Titanic.
Ruth’s story is one of courage and self-sacrifice as she earns her sea legs and faces the unknown, culminating in a desperate, tragic night she will never forget.
"Sometimes we have to go a long way to find out who we are."
The year is 1912. When doctors in India are unable to treat her baby brother’s illness, Ruth’s missionary parents decide there is one solution: move her mother and the children across the world—to Michigan.
But India is the only home Ruth knows. In a matter of days, she must leave Papa and all she loves behind, abandon her dream of one day playing violin in the Calcutta Orchestra, and embark on a rollicking, four-week journey across the Arabian and Mediterranean Seas, followed by the voyage to New York aboard the luxurious, ill-fated RMS Titanic.
Ruth’s story is one of courage and self-sacrifice as she earns her sea legs and faces the unknown, culminating in a desperate, tragic night she will never forget.
264 pages, Hardcover
First published March 25, 2021
48 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 22, 2021
A twelve-year-girl must leave everyone and everything she’s ever known when her sickly baby brother needs treatment in another country. Her best friend, her school, even the chance to play her violin in an orchestra-she must give them all up. In an attempt to soften the blow, her father, who will join the family later, has booked passage on a luxury ocean liner for Ruth, her mother, and siblings. The year is 1912, and the ocean liner is the brand-new Titanic.
I eagerly started this one because I enjoy historical fiction about the Titanic. I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be more than just about the Titanic. It was about a young girl having to leave her childhood home in India for the sake of her brother’s health, and embarking on a journey to America. Ruth begins the trip with quite a bad attitude; she doesn’t want to be uprooted and resents the fact that both her parents are insisting that she go. Along the way, she meets new friends and begins to change her mind about traveling, just as most modern pre-teens are apt to do.
The rich descriptions of the settings, and also the people, made this book come to life. Through Ruth’s eyes I saw the beauty of her Indian village, felt her sorrow upon leaving it and her father, and experienced the awe she felt when exploring the Titanic on its maiden voyage.
I would recommend this book for all Titanic enthusiasts of all ages!It now has a place on my “Best of 2021” list. Thank you, Kindle Unlimited, for a digital copy, but I’m buying it for a re-read in hardcover
very soon!
I eagerly started this one because I enjoy historical fiction about the Titanic. I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be more than just about the Titanic. It was about a young girl having to leave her childhood home in India for the sake of her brother’s health, and embarking on a journey to America. Ruth begins the trip with quite a bad attitude; she doesn’t want to be uprooted and resents the fact that both her parents are insisting that she go. Along the way, she meets new friends and begins to change her mind about traveling, just as most modern pre-teens are apt to do.
The rich descriptions of the settings, and also the people, made this book come to life. Through Ruth’s eyes I saw the beauty of her Indian village, felt her sorrow upon leaving it and her father, and experienced the awe she felt when exploring the Titanic on its maiden voyage.
I would recommend this book for all Titanic enthusiasts of all ages!It now has a place on my “Best of 2021” list. Thank you, Kindle Unlimited, for a digital copy, but I’m buying it for a re-read in hardcover
very soon!
April 16, 2021
I have been fascinated by learning more about the ship Titanic since I saw the movie with Barbara Stanwyck when I was a girl. I was very interested in reading this book.
I liked the fact that this book was based on Ruth Becker's true-life story. She was twelve years old when she left her home in Guntur, India to travel to America with her mother, sister, and baby brother. Ruth was not at all happy to leave her home, her father, and best friend. As a result of this unhappiness, Ruth resented her father and would not write him. She would continue to write to her best friend.
The book was written in a diary format that Ruth kept during her travels. Ruth's father taught her all about the stars and constellations and each night that she was able to go outside, she would give a "Sky Report".
The reason why Ruth and her family needed to leave India was that her little brother was very ill and no one in India had the resources to take care of Richard. Richard had high fevers and seizures. This was very frightening for Ruth's mother. When they left India they suffered from heat on the train and also on a ship. This caused little Richard more problems. Thank goodness other travelers had good advice and home remedies to help Richard overcome his fevers.
Ruth met a father and son circus team and had a lot of adventures along the way. She had a very adventurous spirit. She had to learn to love her family more instead of resenting being the oldest and responsible sibling.
Ruth was an accomplished violinist and was able to play with the Titanic orchestra. Unfortunately, her violin and coveted wooden bird collection were left on this ship. Ruth also made friends with an Irish family that was in third class. Ruth and her family were in second class.
On that fateful day, Ruth was in line to get on a lifeboat, but her mother asked Ruth to go back to get blankets, and because of the time-lapse, Ruth was not able to get on the same lifeboat with her family. Can you imagine what this young girl was thinking? It was very difficult for her not to know if her mother, sister, and brother were okay. Ruth learned so much on this trip! On the lifeboat, she shared her blanket and her father's handkerchief.
I am looking forward to discussing this book with the ACFW Book Club online.
I liked the fact that this book was based on Ruth Becker's true-life story. She was twelve years old when she left her home in Guntur, India to travel to America with her mother, sister, and baby brother. Ruth was not at all happy to leave her home, her father, and best friend. As a result of this unhappiness, Ruth resented her father and would not write him. She would continue to write to her best friend.
The book was written in a diary format that Ruth kept during her travels. Ruth's father taught her all about the stars and constellations and each night that she was able to go outside, she would give a "Sky Report".
The reason why Ruth and her family needed to leave India was that her little brother was very ill and no one in India had the resources to take care of Richard. Richard had high fevers and seizures. This was very frightening for Ruth's mother. When they left India they suffered from heat on the train and also on a ship. This caused little Richard more problems. Thank goodness other travelers had good advice and home remedies to help Richard overcome his fevers.
Ruth met a father and son circus team and had a lot of adventures along the way. She had a very adventurous spirit. She had to learn to love her family more instead of resenting being the oldest and responsible sibling.
Ruth was an accomplished violinist and was able to play with the Titanic orchestra. Unfortunately, her violin and coveted wooden bird collection were left on this ship. Ruth also made friends with an Irish family that was in third class. Ruth and her family were in second class.
On that fateful day, Ruth was in line to get on a lifeboat, but her mother asked Ruth to go back to get blankets, and because of the time-lapse, Ruth was not able to get on the same lifeboat with her family. Can you imagine what this young girl was thinking? It was very difficult for her not to know if her mother, sister, and brother were okay. Ruth learned so much on this trip! On the lifeboat, she shared her blanket and her father's handkerchief.
I am looking forward to discussing this book with the ACFW Book Club online.
tbr-1
January 24, 2023FREE ON AMAZON!! 23.1.23!!!
April 27, 2021
Guntur, India to New York March/April 1912
Hidden gem of a debut! I hadn't heard about this novel and only read it because it was a book club read.
Learning new things through fiction is what I enjoy most about reading. The Stars in April is based upon the factual journey of 12 year old Ruth Becker from India to New York. Ruth's parents were missionaries in India and that is the only home she knew. Ruth didn't want to travel to Michigan with her mother and two siblings, but had no say in the matter. Her youngest sibling was ill and her parents wanted the care of a U.S. physician. Ruth's father was to follow after tying up loose ends.
The author brought the journey alive through the mix of fact and fiction as Ruth, her mother and two younger siblings made their way to New York. Part of their travel was aboard the Titanic. While I knew some details about what happened, this novel using Ruth as the center piece brought the events into clearer focus.
I recommend this novel for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Hidden gem of a debut! I hadn't heard about this novel and only read it because it was a book club read.
Learning new things through fiction is what I enjoy most about reading. The Stars in April is based upon the factual journey of 12 year old Ruth Becker from India to New York. Ruth's parents were missionaries in India and that is the only home she knew. Ruth didn't want to travel to Michigan with her mother and two siblings, but had no say in the matter. Her youngest sibling was ill and her parents wanted the care of a U.S. physician. Ruth's father was to follow after tying up loose ends.
The author brought the journey alive through the mix of fact and fiction as Ruth, her mother and two younger siblings made their way to New York. Part of their travel was aboard the Titanic. While I knew some details about what happened, this novel using Ruth as the center piece brought the events into clearer focus.
I recommend this novel for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
June 27, 2021
I had never heard of Ruth Elizabeth Becker before the reading of this book. I think the author did a great job with including actual events to a fictional story. I found what I think as several similarities between this book and the movie Titanic.
Michael teaching Ruth how to tight rope walk with Jack teaching Rose how to spit. Michael using the napkin to get a note to Ruth and Jack passing a not to Rose by kissing her hand. There was also a character in the book named Jack. Not sure if the author intentionally did this or not.
Ruth showed great strength during the tragic sinking of the Titanic. I think the way she handled the events that took place showed true character. Her love of India, the only home she's ever really known, was inspiring.
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: yes
Michael teaching Ruth how to tight rope walk with Jack teaching Rose how to spit. Michael using the napkin to get a note to Ruth and Jack passing a not to Rose by kissing her hand. There was also a character in the book named Jack. Not sure if the author intentionally did this or not.
Ruth showed great strength during the tragic sinking of the Titanic. I think the way she handled the events that took place showed true character. Her love of India, the only home she's ever really known, was inspiring.
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: yes
March 9, 2021
If you love historical fiction based on real life characters, you must read The Stars In April. Peggy Wirgau captures the angst of a twelve-year-old girl forced to leave everything familiar to her, the only home she's ever known. Young Ruth Becker resents everyone associated with the decision and is determined to be miserable until she meets people along her journey who hold different perspectives and inspire a different attitude. This beautiful coming-of-age story will bring you to tears as the Titanic sinks into the dark, freezing waters of the Atlantic Ocean, taking with it many of the friends Ruth met on board. Her transformation from self-centered adolescent to a young lady willing to give up what she treasures is satisfying and inspiring. And Wirgau's writing is rich and powerful.
Don't miss this story, even if you're past your middle-grade years!
Don't miss this story, even if you're past your middle-grade years!
May 4, 2021
Review Title: YA Historical Fiction At Its Best (review of The Stars in April by Peggy Wirgau)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
What a gem, a diamond in the night sky! This well researched historical novel will transport readers on an older ship ocean voyage from India to England. From there the tale advances onward toward NY aboard the maiden and tragically ended voyage of the Titanic.
The story evolves through the eyes and heart of the main character, Ruth Becker, a twelve year old girl. She has a physically afflicted younger brother who requires specialized medical treatments available in the USA but not in India. Ruth begins the trip with raw emotions of anger and sadness at leaving behind her hopes and dreams built up in India that included playing her violin in a symphony orchestra, experiencing the continuing friendship with her best friend for life, and enjoying being the oldest daughter in a family complete with both parents together. She resents her father’s decision to break up the family and send her to the States with her mother and siblings while he stays behind in India where she longs to be.
This story portrays well the differences in classes as the passengers are divided up on the ships based on who could afford to travel in luxury and who could not. Ruth’s indominable curiosity about people allows her to befriend individuals of all classes. This added variety of characters keeps the pages turning to see who she will meet next. The young friends she makes are bold and perfect companions for explorations and adventures at sea on the two passenger ships.
Ruth’s character goes through an emotional growth spurt when the Titanic begins to sink. She has to consider what holds the most value in life. This true story reels in the tender-hearted at this critical point of being privy to the conflict within Ruth as she makes hard choices. No spoilers, but this book will make people consider their own treasures and what they would give up to save a life or bring comfort to a hurting person when pressed into a corner or a lifeboat.
The book also includes frequent handwritten notes referred to as Sky Reports for her friend in India. This delightful extra adds interest and a scientific draw for those who enjoy sky watching.
I am very thankful to have received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I am under no obligation to give a favorable review. I have presented my honest opinion after reading the book. Based on that, I highly recommend this book. I look forward to reading more from this remarkable and talented author.
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
What a gem, a diamond in the night sky! This well researched historical novel will transport readers on an older ship ocean voyage from India to England. From there the tale advances onward toward NY aboard the maiden and tragically ended voyage of the Titanic.
The story evolves through the eyes and heart of the main character, Ruth Becker, a twelve year old girl. She has a physically afflicted younger brother who requires specialized medical treatments available in the USA but not in India. Ruth begins the trip with raw emotions of anger and sadness at leaving behind her hopes and dreams built up in India that included playing her violin in a symphony orchestra, experiencing the continuing friendship with her best friend for life, and enjoying being the oldest daughter in a family complete with both parents together. She resents her father’s decision to break up the family and send her to the States with her mother and siblings while he stays behind in India where she longs to be.
This story portrays well the differences in classes as the passengers are divided up on the ships based on who could afford to travel in luxury and who could not. Ruth’s indominable curiosity about people allows her to befriend individuals of all classes. This added variety of characters keeps the pages turning to see who she will meet next. The young friends she makes are bold and perfect companions for explorations and adventures at sea on the two passenger ships.
Ruth’s character goes through an emotional growth spurt when the Titanic begins to sink. She has to consider what holds the most value in life. This true story reels in the tender-hearted at this critical point of being privy to the conflict within Ruth as she makes hard choices. No spoilers, but this book will make people consider their own treasures and what they would give up to save a life or bring comfort to a hurting person when pressed into a corner or a lifeboat.
The book also includes frequent handwritten notes referred to as Sky Reports for her friend in India. This delightful extra adds interest and a scientific draw for those who enjoy sky watching.
I am very thankful to have received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I am under no obligation to give a favorable review. I have presented my honest opinion after reading the book. Based on that, I highly recommend this book. I look forward to reading more from this remarkable and talented author.
February 25, 2021
From start to finish, this book was a fabulous delight! From the very first pages, I loved how the author painted the sounds and feelings of each destination so clearly, from India to the train to the ship itself. I felt that I was seeing the experiences from Ruth’s eyes and I was empathetic toward her emotions as she struggled to leave home and took on so many roles during her journey - as a new friend, supportive sister, dependable daughter, and necessary helper. I connected with Ruth’s character development as she navigated each of these roles and found myself cheering her on with each challenge. I have always been fascinated by the stories of passengers aboard the Titanic and I could not put down this true retelling of Ruth Becker’s journey. There are so many “puzzle pieces” when we consider all the lives of those aboard the ship and this was a favorite “piece” to add to my knowledge base as I became closely acquainted with Ruth and her family. It was powerful to see how parts of Ruth’s story matched so well with accounts of other well known Titanic passengers - the officers and crew members, Henry Sleeper Harper and his dog, and a nice reference to John Jacob Astor. The Stars In April brings new life to a beautiful and important true story of a young girl’s experience aboard the Titanic and more. I cannot recommend this book enough to readers of all ages! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 28, 2021
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of The Stars in April. This novel is deeply personal while remaining rich and accurate to historical accounts. It's the kind of book that I wish I could have read in addition to history textbooks to add the human side of the story (beyond the Hollywood rendition) of the RMS Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Descriptions were broad in senses and the voice felt appropriate to the time, while remaining true to a young girl.
April 13, 2021
A heartfelt, beautiful tale with emotive writing that captured my imagination. It Brough the story of the Titanic out in a new dimension for me, as a Belfastian, we get a lot of Titanic stuff so sometimes I turn off, but not with this story. The climatic scene were some of the most poignant I've read. I can promise, I did not have a dry eye when I finished this book. All the feels and All the stars, fully recommend for anyone even slightly intrigued by the enigma surrounding that fateful journey in April.
April 17, 2021
I am probably one of the view that has never watched the movie Titanic, nor have I read much about it.
I will say I'm really glad I read this book. The author did a beautiful job telling Ruth Becker's story. At the end of the book the author shares what happened to each member of the Becker family as well as what aspects were fictional and what areas she held true to what is known about Ruth and her family.
Beautifully told story!
I will say I'm really glad I read this book. The author did a beautiful job telling Ruth Becker's story. At the end of the book the author shares what happened to each member of the Becker family as well as what aspects were fictional and what areas she held true to what is known about Ruth and her family.
Beautifully told story!
December 12, 2021
Many thanks to the author for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
RTC!
RTC!
September 18, 2021
What a beautifully written story. I couldn’t put it down. I went to high school with the author’s daughter and that’s how I came across it. My nephew has been captivated by the Titanic for years and I can’t wait to share this story with him. It makes me want to read more stories about survivors.
March 4, 2021
I found this Titanic story told from Ruth Becker's youthful viewpoint to be fascinating! Her roller-coaster journey from India to America will have readers turning pages to discover who she will meet and the adventures she will experience along the way. Meticulously researched, authenticity rings from every page. So much so, that one cannot read Ruth's story without chuckling and shedding a few tears. Though written for middle-grade readers, I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
ebook-own-toread
January 23, 2023free on kindle
jan 23, 2023
https://amzn.to/3wp4juw
#ad
jan 23, 2023
https://amzn.to/3wp4juw
#ad
February 18, 2022
Outstanding! The author brings this true story to life so vividly. And her retelling of the Titanic disaster was compelling (even though we all know how it turned out).
Read
April 23, 2024The hills of Queenstown faded in the distance. Ahead, the ocean reflected the sun across the entire horizon. The unstoppable, unsinkable Titanic charged westward, in complete command of the sea. With one hand on the railing, I turned my face to the sun, shut my eyes, and inhaled the chilly air. I felt like a wise and powerful seagull, flying at full speed over the blue world below.
In The Stars in April, twelve-year-old Second Class passenger and missionary daughter Ruth Becker travels with her mother and siblings from India, unhappy to leave the only home she's ever known.
The first half of the book is the lead-up to Ruth's time on the Titanic. Once aboard, Ruth repeatedly sneaks into First Class to explore, meets both historical and fictional figures, including a Third Class passenger she befriends, and even .
Historical fiction is always a balance between fiction and history, and the author notes mention that the real Ruth loved music but played piano, not violin. Certainly, some liberties were taken, and I suspect that the real Ruth didn't have quite as many adventures as the Ruth we meet here.
I was most impressed by the portrayal of Ruth (mild spoiler for history) and her time there, which I thought was an excellent and authentic-feeling portrayal, with some of the best emotion I've read about that aspect of the disaster. While there is reference to an afterlife, the author doesn't shy away from the tragedy as much as other children's books I've read about the disaster.
I think younger readers will especially enjoy Ruth's adventures, and hopefully this book will inspire them to look deeper into the story of the Titanic.
In The Stars in April, twelve-year-old Second Class passenger and missionary daughter Ruth Becker travels with her mother and siblings from India, unhappy to leave the only home she's ever known.
The first half of the book is the lead-up to Ruth's time on the Titanic. Once aboard, Ruth repeatedly sneaks into First Class to explore, meets both historical and fictional figures, including a Third Class passenger she befriends, and even .
Historical fiction is always a balance between fiction and history, and the author notes mention that the real Ruth loved music but played piano, not violin. Certainly, some liberties were taken, and I suspect that the real Ruth didn't have quite as many adventures as the Ruth we meet here.
I was most impressed by the portrayal of Ruth (mild spoiler for history) and her time there, which I thought was an excellent and authentic-feeling portrayal, with some of the best emotion I've read about that aspect of the disaster. While there is reference to an afterlife, the author doesn't shy away from the tragedy as much as other children's books I've read about the disaster.
I think younger readers will especially enjoy Ruth's adventures, and hopefully this book will inspire them to look deeper into the story of the Titanic.
June 26, 2021
The Stars In April by Peggy Wirgau, was short, heartfelt, and great for any history buffs. In this novel we follow the true story of Ruth Becker, a twelve year old girl living in India with her missionary parents. When her little brother becomes sick and India’s doctors are unsure how to help, Ruth’s family embarks a four week journey across the Arabian and Mediterranean seas, followed by a voyage to New York on the RMS Titanic—to Michigan.
It’s incredibly refreshing to learn a Titanic survivor story that you didn’t know about before!
Not to mention how much genuine stress I felt for Ruth and her family while I was reading. While I knew the book was about a survivor, I was still biting my nails in anticipation waiting for the fatal collision with the iceberg.
The author, Peggy Wirgau, did a wonderful job telling Ruth’s story. The book was definitely a bit stressful to read, but an easy one at that. I completely devoured it in two sittings. How could you not, when it was so well written, paced, and the perfect length. I would highly recommend this book for students or history lovers. This would be a perfect example or read for any history or English class.
Ruth Becker’s story is one that should be read and told.
It’s incredibly refreshing to learn a Titanic survivor story that you didn’t know about before!
Not to mention how much genuine stress I felt for Ruth and her family while I was reading. While I knew the book was about a survivor, I was still biting my nails in anticipation waiting for the fatal collision with the iceberg.
The author, Peggy Wirgau, did a wonderful job telling Ruth’s story. The book was definitely a bit stressful to read, but an easy one at that. I completely devoured it in two sittings. How could you not, when it was so well written, paced, and the perfect length. I would highly recommend this book for students or history lovers. This would be a perfect example or read for any history or English class.
Ruth Becker’s story is one that should be read and told.
April 28, 2021
This book would be classified somewhere between a middle grade and YA novel, but can be enjoyed by adults as well.
The topic being the Titanic makes it a harder topic, of course, but we learn so much in this historical tale based on a true story. The photos in the back of the real characters make it come alive.
The story takes some liberties where needed, but I loved how it gives a picture of what it would be like as a child aboard the Titanic, emotions and all. It could bring up some good topics of discussion, excellent for history class or book clubs.
The topic being the Titanic makes it a harder topic, of course, but we learn so much in this historical tale based on a true story. The photos in the back of the real characters make it come alive.
The story takes some liberties where needed, but I loved how it gives a picture of what it would be like as a child aboard the Titanic, emotions and all. It could bring up some good topics of discussion, excellent for history class or book clubs.
November 22, 2021
Peggy Wirgau’s The Stars in April is a work of factual fiction recounting the journey of Ruth Becker, a survivor of the Titanic shipwreck on April 15, 1912. Due to the illness of her little brother, Ruth Becker must move from her birthplace and abode, Gunter, India, to Michigan. She is indignant at the prospect of her new and uncertain life in a foreign country, away from India, and her loving friend Sajni. The Stars in April follows the story of Ruth as she embraces the possibilities of a new beginning, her encounters with interesting people she meets along the voyage, and her experiencing the wonder of the magnificent queen of the sea, Titanic.
Though their presence may be brief, the novel presents the reader with some beautiful and interesting characters. Throughout Ruth’s significant voyage, the reader witnesses her change from resentful to a selfless individual affected by the people she meets. In the company of his equally generous father, Michael, the acrobat and unschooled boy of Ruth’s age, shows the wisdom he has gained during the years performing in a circus around the world. Also, while the three characters Natalie, Millie, and Elizabeth portray fashionable women of the time, who are eager to embrace the world with a receptive eye, Mrs. Becker’s astonishment at these women’s independence betrays her desire to be one of them.
By blending the facts from Ruth Becker’s life and the accounts of experiences gleaned from the internet, together with the additional elements of fiction, the author has woven a riveting historical fiction novel. I find myself exploring the deck of 1st class alongside Ruth, dancing in 3rd class with Ann, and experiencing the thrill of the Titanic, thanks to the fascinating and detailed accounts. Ruth and Michael’s eccentric habits are also great observations by the author of human behavior. Ruth’s habit of humming when stressed and Michael’s impulsive wrist-flexing when anxious are thoughtful ways to humanize these characters and make them feel real and sympathetic.
The reader is taken along, from Ruth’s anxious anticipation of what lies ahead to her anticipation of a fresh start with gratitude and eagerness. Ruth Becker’s last sky report in her journal, where she describes a clear and starlit sky instead of the constellations and the ancient tales associated with them, apparently illustrates her desire to paint her own story against the big horizon of the sky in her new life.
The Stars in April is highly recommended to readers who would love to explore the Titanic with Ruth Becker. It encourages people to accept and explore the new and unknown paths God has laid out for them without questioning his will, as the opportunities to encounter extraordinary people and experience significant things in life would never arise if one remained stationary.
Though their presence may be brief, the novel presents the reader with some beautiful and interesting characters. Throughout Ruth’s significant voyage, the reader witnesses her change from resentful to a selfless individual affected by the people she meets. In the company of his equally generous father, Michael, the acrobat and unschooled boy of Ruth’s age, shows the wisdom he has gained during the years performing in a circus around the world. Also, while the three characters Natalie, Millie, and Elizabeth portray fashionable women of the time, who are eager to embrace the world with a receptive eye, Mrs. Becker’s astonishment at these women’s independence betrays her desire to be one of them.
By blending the facts from Ruth Becker’s life and the accounts of experiences gleaned from the internet, together with the additional elements of fiction, the author has woven a riveting historical fiction novel. I find myself exploring the deck of 1st class alongside Ruth, dancing in 3rd class with Ann, and experiencing the thrill of the Titanic, thanks to the fascinating and detailed accounts. Ruth and Michael’s eccentric habits are also great observations by the author of human behavior. Ruth’s habit of humming when stressed and Michael’s impulsive wrist-flexing when anxious are thoughtful ways to humanize these characters and make them feel real and sympathetic.
The reader is taken along, from Ruth’s anxious anticipation of what lies ahead to her anticipation of a fresh start with gratitude and eagerness. Ruth Becker’s last sky report in her journal, where she describes a clear and starlit sky instead of the constellations and the ancient tales associated with them, apparently illustrates her desire to paint her own story against the big horizon of the sky in her new life.
The Stars in April is highly recommended to readers who would love to explore the Titanic with Ruth Becker. It encourages people to accept and explore the new and unknown paths God has laid out for them without questioning his will, as the opportunities to encounter extraordinary people and experience significant things in life would never arise if one remained stationary.
April 23, 2023
I really liked this book and especially the characters. Would definitely recommend for middle grade readers. I will say, I would have liked more titanic and less of the main character’s pre-titanic voyage. I kept waiting and waiting for her to get on the ship. Definitely worth reading, though, especially since it’s based on a true story!
April 14, 2021
Ruth and her family make an incredible journey, and meet fun and fascinating people along the way. The characters are developed beautifully. The historical, geographical, and astronomy elements are fascinating. Very enjoyable book!
April 29, 2021
Beautifully written story told from the point of view of a mature, intelligent 12-year-old girl. I particularly like that the story begins at the start of her long journey from India. You get to know and love the characters well before they step foot on the Titanic. This was a quick read and the story kept my interest from the very first few pages until the end.
January 31, 2022
What a wonderful book! The author expertly weaves fact and fiction throughout the story. I highly recommend 'The Stars in April' not just for Titanic fans, but for everyone! My Book Club Buddies loved it!
June 2, 2021
Excellent Book! Tells the true story of a 12 year old survivor on the Titanic.
October 4, 2021
This is an excellent Christian children’s book. It balances a Christian world view well. It is an integral part of the story without being “put on” or preachy. The beginning took me a little bit to get into, but once I was invested in the characters I couldn’t put it down. The character development is well executed and truly shows the growth and change in the characters through their experiences. Add in the sense of adventure and the tension of knowing that they would need up on the Titanic, I stayed up much too late to finish the last 50 pages. We also had the author visit our school and the she did a great job talking to the students, answering their questions and sharing the process to write a book. This would make a great family read aloud.
May 1, 2022
Loved this book! Historical fiction at it’s finest!
May 2, 2025
This was a really sweet story that grew on me as I kept reading. I wasn't sure what to make of it/what I'd think of it, and I was pleasantly surprised; it's quite profound and insightful, especially given (or perhaps because?) of having a 12-y/o protagonist. I'm glad I read it.
June 2, 2021
The detail description of what travel on the Titanic must have been like, is absorbing. Though this is based in a true story of a young girl's survival of the sinking if this historic ship it reads
like a novel. Good choice for a book club
like a novel. Good choice for a book club
August 7, 2022
Memories of a Titanic survivor
Based on 12-year old Ruth Becker’s memories of leaving India where her missionary dad ran an orphanage, traveling by train to the west coast of India, then by ship to England, where her mother and siblings go on board the Titanic. Her father would join them in America later. On the way, she met several people who taught her life lessons. She ended up leaving her violin and her journal on board, but her family survived. Such detail as she explored the Titanic with a friend she met there. Wonderful recounting of the journey!
Based on 12-year old Ruth Becker’s memories of leaving India where her missionary dad ran an orphanage, traveling by train to the west coast of India, then by ship to England, where her mother and siblings go on board the Titanic. Her father would join them in America later. On the way, she met several people who taught her life lessons. She ended up leaving her violin and her journal on board, but her family survived. Such detail as she explored the Titanic with a friend she met there. Wonderful recounting of the journey!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews