I Survived the Great Molasses Flood, 1919

Gr 4-8–Based on the book by Tarshis, the newest graphic novel adaptation in the “I Survived” series details a snapshot of 1919, featuring both the impending molasses flood in Boston and the Great Influenza pandemic. Carmen and her father left Italy after an earthquake and flood, and moved to Boston, MA, for the opportunities that America could provide. They settle into general comfort alongside another family and Carmen finds friendship with Tony, who is of similar age. The two go to school together, visit an old horse in a stall close by, and take swipes of molasses off of the large and unstable vat that sits near their home. Then, the catastrophe occurs and the tank bursts, killing many and destroying their neighborhood. The chronology of events paints a vivid picture of the time with complementary illustrations to the historical narrative. The delivery is easy to follow, making this graphic novel a useful look into the past for younger readers, bolstered by the art. Readers are endeared to Carmen and Tony from the start, so when tragedies befall their families, it’s emotional without being gratuitous. A glimpse into the disaster occurs at the beginning, creating a buildup of anxiousness in the lead-up to the event and its catalyst.