53 pages • 1 hour read
A Night to Remember
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Book Brief
182
Biography • Nonfiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1910s
1955
Adult
14+ years
950L
Super Short Summary
A Night to Remember by Walter Lord offers a detailed, minute-by-minute account of the RMS Titanic's tragic sinking on April 14, 1912, following its collision with an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The Titanic, deemed unsinkable, received ice warnings but continued at high speed. After striking the iceberg, the ship slowly sank, leading to panic and confusion among passengers and crew. Despite not having enough lifeboats, many lifeboats were launched half-empty. As the ship sank, the stern rose vertically before the vessel broke in two and fully submerged by 2:20 am. The rescue ship Carpathia saved 705 out of 2,240 passengers.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Dark
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
30,169 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Walter Lord's A Night to Remember is hailed for its meticulous detail and compelling narrative, vividly bringing the Titanic disaster to life. Readers appreciate its historical accuracy and engaging storytelling. Some note, however, that the book's focus on numerous individual accounts can occasionally make it challenging to follow. Overall, it's a gripping and informative read.
Who Should Read A Night to Remember?
Readers who are captivated by maritime history and dramatic, true-life disaster stories will enjoy A Night to Remember by Walter Lord. Fans of Erik Larson's Dead Wake and David McCullough's The Johnstown Flood will appreciate the meticulous research and engaging narrative style.
30,169 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Captain Edward James Smith
Captain Edward James Smith
Captain Smith was chosen to lead the Titanic on its maiden voyage due to his popularity among passengers, despite earlier mishaps during his command of sister ship Olympic.
Thomas Andrews
Thomas Andrews
A talented ship architect and managing director at Harland & Wolff, Andrews played a crucial role in the Titanic's design and was onboard to monitor its performance on the maiden voyage.
Bruce Ismay
Bruce Ismay
President of the White Star Line, Ismay joined the Titanic voyage and was involved in the ship's affairs, gaining notoriety for his actions during the disaster.
182
Biography • Nonfiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1910s
1955
Adult
14+ years
950L
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