The Johnstown Flood by David McCullough - 4 stars (Subdue)

[Joy D]

The Johnstown Flood by David McCullough - 4* - My Review

On May 31, 1889, the South Fork Dam broke and sent the contents of Lake Conemaugh careening down the valley toward Johnstown, Pennsylvania, stripping away everything in its path. David McCullough recounts what happened before and after this preventable disaster. As in many tragedies, those in charge were warned ahead of time, and remediations suggested, but these remedies were ignored. This account tells of the contributing factors of business decisions, scientific principles, weather, and a club of wealthy people who were not interested in taking advice. The author analyzes the entire sequence of events – from the history of the dam’s construction to the aftermath of the disaster. It is a detailed account that focuses on personal stories as well as the larger picture. The incredible power of natural forces is vividly described. It was one of the first times the Red Cross participated in civilian relief efforts for a disaster. Recommended to those interested in 19th century US history and tragic incidents that bring out both the best and worst of human nature.

[Booknblues]

I haven't read this but I loved a fiction book about the flood, In Sunlight, in a Beautiful Garden.

[Joy D]

Booknblues wrote: "I haven't read this but I loved a fiction book about the flood, In Sunlight, in a Beautiful Garden."
Sounds interesting!

[Joanne]

I liked this one, as I new very little about the flood.