A Storm Too Soon

A Remarkable True Survival Story in 80 Foot Seas

Written by Michael J. Tougias, Adapted for Young Readers

Michael J. Tougias’ book about an incredible at-sea rescue left me speechless. While the young reader version I read is stripped down to a matter-of-fact account, I was nonetheless on tenterhooks wondering what would happen next. Everyone who loves adventure, SAR, the sea, friendships, and life-or-death situations will like this book. I was most impressed by the account of the rescue swimmer. He is truly a giant among men. I was really glad Tougias waited until the last line of the book to let us know that there is actual footage of the rescue attempt from the helicopter. Reading the story before watching the video is IMPERATIVE, as it means about a thousand times more knowing what the men captured on film went through before the footage begins and throughout the video.

Every school library could benefit from having this book and others like it. It encourages students to follow their dreams, try difficult things, and never give up.

I do have a couple of criticisms for the book. There is a photographic insert of 8 pages in the middle of the book that COMPLETELY spoils the ending. It is a rescue story! I am reading to find out what happened to J. P. and Ben and Raul and Drew and Nevada and Scott and the pictures tell me what happened to all of them when I am only halfway through! I also thought the writer should have referenced and emphasized the title a bit more to help the reader understand why the book was given that title. That being said, I loved the book and hope to read the full length version at some point.

Review by Stephanie Cousins, Granger High School Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 5-12

A Storm Too Soon: A Remarkable True Survival Story in 80 Foot Seas (adapted for middle grade readers)
Written by Michael J. Tougias
Christy Ottaviano Books/Henry Holt and Company
220 pages
Release Date: May 24, 2016
A review copy was provided by the publisher.

Tags:

2016 YA Nonfiction, A Storm Too Soon, Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda Triangle, broken bones, Canadians, Coast Guard, epic journeys, Gulf Stream, helicopter, Hurricanes, Michael J. Tougias, ocean, radio, rescues, sailing, SAR, search and rescue, SOS, Stephanie Cousins, Survival, Swimming, waves, Young Reader Adaptations