The Wreck of the Ethie

April 1, 2000
Gr 4-7-This book is a novelization of an event that occurred in 1919 off the coast of Newfoundland. A sudden, violent winter storm wrecked the ship SS Ethie against rocks about 100 yards from shore. The ferocity of the wind and waves prevented residents on shore from reaching the stranded passengers. A Newfoundland dog came to the rescue, swimming out to the boat and then returning with a cable with which a rescue system was devised. All 92 people were safely evacuated. The dog was later given an official commendation by the Canadian government. The author dramatically re-creates these events through the eyes of Patrick, a teen crewman on board the ship, and Colleen, the dog's young owner, who lives near the scene of the wreck. The fast-paced action, easy reading level, and black-and-white drawings will appeal to reluctant readers. The author's note contains factual information about the storm, shipwreck, and ensuing rescue. It, along with the glossary of nautical terms and maps of the area, helps to authenticate the factual nature of the book.-William C. Schadt, Glacier Park Middle School, Maple Valley, WA

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