Horn Book Review
In an opportunity of a lifetime, orphaned Margaret becomes a companion to a wealthy lady on the [cf2]Titanic[cf1]'s maiden voyage. Margaret's diary conveys her excitement, fears, and horrors and allows the reader to understand something of the social class system of the early twentieth century. A historical note and photographs are included. From HORN BOOK Spring 1999, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Gr. 3^-6. Like Osborne's Standing in the Light, reviewed above, this novel is part of the Dear America series. It features orphan Margaret Brady, who is hired as a companion to wealthy American Mrs. Frederick Carstairs, traveling on the maiden voyage of the R. M. S. Titanic in 1912. For Margaret, this is an opportunity to join her older brother, William, in Boston. By now everyone in America knows the Titanic story backwards and forwards, and White's narrative provides no new insights. Margaret, like her celluloid twin Rose, passes up a seat in a life raft to search the lower decks for her doomed friend Robert, a ship's steward. Unlike Rose, Margaret's behavior with Robert remains age appropriate. Although perhaps not a first choice, this will be popular with the movie's young fans and will fill a need in most libraries. Appended with a historical note, period photos, and a time line. --Kay Weisman
School Library Journal Review
Gr 4-8-The hopes and dreams of a young girl are beautifully conveyed through White's engaging narrative. Orphaned Margaret Ann looks forward to the day when she will have enough money to leave London to be reunited with her brother in America. She is given that opportunity when she becomes the companion to Mrs. Carstairs, a wealthy American returning to the States. Their voyage aboard the Titanic is a thrilling experience for Margaret until disaster strikes. Readers will be drawn to this 13-year-old's humble, friendly disposition. Friendship, courage, and fortitude are themes that resonate throughout the novel, contributing to its structural integrity. The story's historical significance is evident in Margaret's descriptions of the liner, the famous people she encounters, and the events leading up to the tragedy. A strong female protagonist and a flowing, descriptive narrative result in a powerful book about human frailty and courage in the face of adversity. Poignant scenes of familial love and friendship are believable, and Margaret's spiritual and emotional growth are evident by the course her life takes after the trauma. Archival photos and a time line bring the reality of the situation to light. A heartwarming story with wide appeal.-Janet Gillen, Great Neck Public Library, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
