The Wreck of the Ethie (Paperback)

~ (Author), Paul Bachem (Illustrator)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 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
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"The fast-paced action, easy reading level, and black-and-white drawings will appeal to reluctant readers." - School Library Journal

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Paperback: 115 pages
• Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (October 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1561451983
• ISBN-13: 978-1561451982
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (43 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #485,845 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thoroughly Enjoyable, December 8, 1999

By	Gail M. Helms (Illinois) - See all my reviews

I read many of the books my children select so that we can discuss them. Many are disappointing but the Wreck of the Ethie was thoroughly enjoyable. Hilary Hyland has written a story that you can't put down. Her descriptions of the characters, events and Newfoundland dog are so well done that you feel you are on the shore watching the entire rescue take place. My 9 year old daughter read the book in one sitting and talked about it for days after. Ms. Hyland should be commended for her obviously painstaking research into the story. This kind of wholesome story depicting the good in humanity is what our children should be reading.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent Book for Children and Adults, February 10, 2001

By	Courtney L. Lewis "Sassy Librarian" (Kingston, PA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Hilary Hyland has done an incredible job of researching and then fictionalizing this incredible story of a shipwreck of the coast of Newfoundland in a blizzard during December 1919. Her depication of life on the island, as well as the loving relationship between a girl and her dog, offer readers two good reasons to read this book. Hyland tells the tale of Colleen and her dog, Skipper, while drawing the parallel story of a poor Irish boy, Patrick, who works on the SS Ethie. I think many young boys and girls will be able to put themselves in the place of Colleen and Patrick and live this harrowing adventure to the fullest. Since there is a happy ending for everyone, the story can be read by younger children (seven or eight) without fear of nightmares.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Wreck of the Ethie, December 3, 1999

By	Sarah J. Quinn (Virginia) - See all my reviews

Hilary Hyland has written a compelling account of a true story. The hero is a much loved family dog that saves the lives of people ship-wrecked on the SS Ethie. Although this is written for 9-12 year olds I [in the over thirty crowd]found myself totally immersed in it. I was in tears at several points, and couldn't put the book down. I would highly recommend this book for boys, girls,and adults! While enthralled with the story you will unknowingly learn about geography, fishing, shipping, and acts of courage and generosity. Can't wait to have disucssions with my children about the book.