The Danger Files: Real-Life Disasters

This engaging nonfiction chapter book invites young readers, ages 7-11, to investigate five iconic historical disasters: the Titanic, Hindenburg, Great Influenza, Boston molasses flood, and Chicago fire. Authored by Emmy-winning journalist Anna Crowley Redding, the book employs a captivating 'case file' format, complete with firsthand accounts, critical facts, and even do-at-home experiments. It encourages critical thinking and journalistic inquiry, allowing children to piece together clues and understand the science and history behind these dramatic events. Active illustrations and extensive back matter further enrich the learning experience.

From the Titanic to the Boston molasses flood, investigate five famous historical disasters just like a real reporter—through facts, eyewitnesses, and clues—with Emmy-winning journalist Anna Crowley Redding. Delve deeper into some of the most dramatic disasters in history! Using case files full of firsthand accounts, critical facts, do-at-home experiments, and clues, readers can become disaster detectives and determine for themselves what happened and why. Take on the sinking of the Titanic, the crash of the Hindenburg, the Great Influenza epidemic of 1918, the Boston molasses flood, and the fire that decimated the city of Chicago. A “Your Mission!” introduction gets readers actively involved, and an inviting layout that evokes the feel of a working case file, complete with paperclipped notes and important pictures, keeps them eager for the next clue. Author Anna Crowley Redding brings her extensive journalism background to this engrossing dive into history, and Robbie Cathro’s active illustrations bring the scenes—and the real people involved—to life. Back matter includes extensive source notes and a bibliography for young journalists who want to get an even bigger scoop.