Review: The Great Halifax Explosion: A World War I Story of Treachery, Tragedy, and Extraordinary Heroism by John U. Bacon

Title: The Great Halifax Explosion: A World War I Story of Treachery, Tragedy, and Extraordinary Heroism
Author: John U. Bacon
Publisher: William Morrow
Publication Date: November 7, 2017
Edition: ebook (432 pages)
Genres:

• Nonfiction
• History
• World War I

My Rating: 5 of 5 stars

On December 6, 2017, a huge explosion rocked Halifax, Nova Scotia, destroyed much of the community and killed at least 1,953 people in the explosion and its aftermath. In some cases, whole families disappeared and many bodies were vaporized, given the power of the explosion. John U. Bacon recounts the events leading up to the explosion, the events and actions of many on the day of the explosion and its aftermath, including the extraordinary heroism of many, residents and outsiders alike.

I found this book fascinating in so many respects. First of all, I had no idea that so much explosive power even existed a century ago. Second, the response of those who came to the aid of Halifax was phenomenal, especially given the state of both communication and transportation available then. I am so glad these events are not lost to history; and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read and learn from this remarkable book.