Danger at Sand Cave

August 4, 2000
Gr 1-3-Floyd Collins got more publicity in the final week before his death in February 1925, than in all his 37 years in Kentucky as a caver. He had crawled 55 feet into a narrow cavern when parts of the cave collapsed on his legs and trapped him inside. This account centers on a fictitious 10-year-old boy's efforts to assist in Collins's rescue. Unfortunately, by the time the workers actually reached the trapped man, he was dead. His plight is further documented in an author's note. Realistic drawings dominated by shades of gray and brown depict the clothing of the period and add clarification to the text for readers unfamiliar with caves, shafts, and lanterns. This adventure will appeal to beginning and reluctant readers.-Nancy A. Gifford, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

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