Books Like...

Rogue Wave by Boyd Morrison is a gripping disaster thriller that takes the readers on a non-stop action-packed ride as huge tsunamis threaten Hawaii. The author's detailed descriptions of the massive waves and the destruction they cause create a breathless and terrifying atmosphere, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is filled with unpredictable events, making it a roller coaster ride of tension and excitement. Despite some shortcomings in character development, the book excels in delivering a thrilling narrative that captures the readers' attention from the very beginning.

'The Johnstown Flood' by David McCullough chronicles the devastating natural disaster that occurred in 1889 when a dam in western Pennsylvania collapsed, leading to one of the worst tragedies in US history. McCullough's writing style captivates readers by delivering a wealth of historical data in a compelling and engaging manner. The narrative explores the events leading up to the flood, exposing the failures and decisions that culminated in the disaster, while also shedding light on the social and economic dynamics of the time. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, McCullough brings to life the horror of the flood and its aftermath, providing insight into the lives of both the average citizens of Johnstown and the prominent figures involved.

"The Circus Fire" by Stewart O'Nan is a meticulously researched and detailed account of the tragic Hartford Circus Fire that took place on July 6, 1944. O'Nan skillfully weaves together survivor stories, investigation details, and the aftermath of the disaster, offering a comprehensive look at one of the greatest tragedies to ever hit an American circus. The narrative covers the events leading up to the fire, the chaos and devastation during the incident, and the long-lasting impact on the victims and the community, providing a vivid and emotional portrayal of the harrowing event.

O'Nan's writing style in "The Circus Fire" is described as beautifully written, honest, and thorough. He delves deep into the history of the fire, presenting facts with the precision of a seasoned attorney and capturing the humanity and resilience of those affected by the tragedy. The book not only recounts the events of that fateful day but also explores the mysteries and unanswered questions surrounding the fire, making it a compelling and informative read for those interested in historical tragedies and human resilience.

'Triangle: The Fire That Changed America' by David von Drehle recounts the devastating 1911 fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory where 146 workers, mainly young women, lost their lives. This tragedy marked a turning point in U.S. labor history, leading to the enactment of several workplace safety laws. The author not only delves into the details of the fire but also provides a glimpse into the lives of the women who worked at the factory, offering a well-researched narrative filled with historical insights.

explores the aftermath of the fire and its impact on labor reform, government regulations, and the power dynamics between owners, workers, and politicians. It sheds light on the systemic issues of worker exploitation, lack of safety measures, and the struggle for better working conditions. Through a blend of storytelling and historical context, the author brings to life the events surrounding the Triangle fire and its significance in shaping progressive politics in the early 20th century.

'Moonfall' by Jack McDevitt is a gripping science fiction novel set in the mid-2020s, where an interstellar comet threatens to collide with the Moon, potentially causing catastrophic damage to Earth. The story follows the struggles of various characters, including the Vice President of the U.S., as they race against time to evacuate the Moonbase and prevent the impending disaster. McDevitt weaves a complex narrative filled with suspense, action, and compelling character interactions, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The writing style of 'Moonfall' is praised for its attention to detail, realistic portrayal of space science, and well-developed characters. The book effectively builds tension and suspense, engaging readers in the terror and hardships faced by the characters as they navigate through life-threatening situations in space. The plot unfolds through multiple perspectives, including news media reports, showcasing the heroic efforts of individuals trying to avert a global catastrophe.

'Gone at 3:17: The Untold Story of the Worst School Disaster in American History' by Michael Wereschagin and David M. Brown is a poignant and well-written account detailing the tragic New London School explosion of 1937. Through vivid storytelling, the authors bring to life the experiences of rescue workers, loved ones of the victims, and the characters involved, making the readers feel a deep connection to the events leading up to the disaster. captures the heart-wrenching loss felt by the town and families affected by the explosion, painting a vivid picture of the devastating impact it had on the community.

The narrative style of the authors is immersive, allowing readers to transport themselves back to 1937 and witness the unfolding tragedy as if they were there. Through meticulous research and attention to detail, the book not only sheds light on the events of that fateful day but also honors the memory of the lives lost and the heroic efforts of those who survived. By delving into the personal stories of survivors, the book provides a comprehensive and emotional account of a devastating moment in American history that should never be forgotten.

'A Paradise Built in Hell' by Rebecca Solnit explores the idea that in times of disaster, ordinary people come together to form communities of hope and altruism, contrary to the popular belief of chaos and violence. Solnit delves into various historical disasters like the San Francisco Earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, and 9/11, highlighting the resilience and cooperation exhibited by individuals during these crises. Through a mix of research, personal stories, and sociological analysis, Solnit challenges the notion of elite panic and government mismanagement during disasters, emphasizing the positive aspects of human nature in times of crisis.

Solnit's writing style in 'A Paradise Built in Hell' has been described as a mix of theoretical analysis, personal narratives, and historical accounts. While some readers found the book to be a bit theoretical and opinion-driven, others appreciated the in-depth exploration of disasters and the grassroots efforts that emerge in response. offers a critical examination of how communities react to disasters, shedding light on the resilience and altruism that often arise in the face of adversity.

'Krakatoa: The Day the World Exploded: August 27, 1883' by Simon Winchester is a detailed account of the catastrophic eruption of the Krakatau volcano in 1883. Winchester weaves together vulcanology, geology, history, technology, Indonesian legends, and politics to narrate the story of the Krakatoa eruption and its wide-ranging impacts on society and the world. delves into the historical backdrop of the Dutch East India Company, Indonesian history, geology, geography, and militant Islam, providing a comprehensive exploration of the events leading up to and following the eruption.

'Outland' in the series 'Quantum Earth' by Dennis E. Taylor follows a group of college students who unexpectedly find themselves in a parallel universe through a portal. The story revolves around their struggles to navigate this new world, deal with the consequences of a supervolcano eruption, and adapt to the challenges they face. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and filled with interesting characters and plot twists that keep the readers entertained.

In Robert Harris' "Pompeii," the story unfolds in AD 79 as Marcus Attilius, an aquarius overseeing the Aqua Augusta aqueduct, is sent to Pompeii to investigate a water supply issue. As he delves into the problem, he uncovers political intrigue, portentous signs of an imminent disaster, and the looming eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Despite the predictable outcome, the novel is described as a definite page-turner, blending science, engineering, and historical elements seamlessly into the plot.

The book offers a vivid portrayal of life in ancient Rome, specifically in Pompeii, before the catastrophic eruption. Readers are transported back in time, experiencing the daily struggles, conflicts, and societal dynamics of the era through the eyes of the protagonist, Attilius. The narrative skillfully weaves together tales of corruption, survival, and love amidst the impending natural disaster, creating an engrossing and suspenseful story that captures the essence of Pompeii's final days.