The stars in April: Based on the true story of Titanic survivor Ruth Becker

Reviewed by:

Ceil Carey, retired public librarian and long time book discussion leader

REVIEW INTRODUCTION

Title:

The stars in April: Based on the true story of Titanic survivor Ruth Becker

Author:

Peggy Wirgau

Publisher:

Illuminate YA fiction

Publication date:

2021

Format:

Paperback

Length:

247 pages

Overview:

Loved this book! Readers are traveling with Ruth Becker as she and her mother, brother and sister leave her beloved India and make their way to America. Richard, Ruth’s young brother, is ill and doctors in India cannot determine what is causing his sickness. Their hope is that American doctors can figure it out. Ruth journals as they travel on the train to Cochin, on the S.S. City of Benares and finally on the RMS Titanic. Along the way, Ruth meets such interesting fellow travelers, has a variety of adventures (some sanctioned by her mother, some not) and comes to term with this big move from the land where she was raised.

Of course, all readers know what is going to happen on the Titanic but how will this play out for Ruth and her family as well as the many friends she has made on board is what keeps us reading! A compelling story that will appeal to teens but also to adults.

Rating:

5 out of 5

Suggested audience:

Teens and adults will both enjoy this story.

Christian impact:

God’s hand is evident throughout Ruth Becker’s life.

Also includes:

-maps

-epilogue

-photos

-discussion questions

-author’s note

-constellations of the Northern Hemisphere

-bibliography and resources

https://www.amazon.com/