Children of the SS Atlantic: The Lives Lost to One of History's Worst Maritime Disasters

The newest addition to the popular, full-colour Compass series for young readers explores one of the deadliest maritime disasters before the Titanic.

In the early hours of April 1, 1873, the steamship SS Atlantic wrecked along the coast of Nova Scotia. It was one of the deadliest maritime disasters before its fellow White Star Line ship Titanic sank almost 40 years later. More than 950 people were on board--including about 119 children and babies. In the newest addition to Nimbus's popular Compass series, readers are introduced to the youngest of these passengers, from the teenage crew members to the children travelling with their families.

They'll meet John Hanley, a twelve-year-old steerage passenger sailing to a new life in the United States; Lillian Davidson, a seventeen-year-old travelling in the luxurious saloon class; Tom Hamm, a nine-year-old Nova Scotian who helped with rescue efforts; and more.

Author Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail takes readers from the ship's departure from England, to Ireland, then across the ocean to Canada, detailing the fun and frustrations of ship travel at the time. Readers will relive the harrowing night of the wreck and learn about the selfless actions of the Nova Scotians who helped save 400 survivors. Children of the SS Atlantic provides fascinating insight into this Canadian disaster that has been all but lost to history, and inspires new generations to be courageous and compassionate.

Includes dozens of modern and archival colour photos and illustrations as well as informative sidebars.