Isaac's Storm

by Erik Larson
Isaac's Storm cover
Good Books rating 3.92
History
Technical
  • ID: 5524
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 1999-08-24
  • Reviews: 4

Isaac's Storm delves into the catastrophic Galveston hurricane of 1900, which devastated the thriving city and claimed thousands of lives. The book combines meticulous research with vivid storytelling to explore the meteorological and human factors that led to the disaster. It's a chilling reminder of nature's fury and the consequences of underestimating its power. Author Erik Larson brings to life the story of Isaac Cline, a scientist who witnessed the storm firsthand. Through Cline's experiences and the broader historical context, the book offers a compelling narrative that blends science, history, and personal drama.

Reviews
The Storygraph · hjparks · 2025-10-24
balanced 3.00

The reviewer finds the book top-heavy and lacking in post-storm resolution, but acknowledges the author's skill in storytelling. The narrative is compelling, but some aspects feel incomplete.

hjparks offers a mixed review of Isaac's Storm, noting that the book feels top-heavy and could benefit from more post-storm resolution. They appreciate the author's skill in storytelling and the compelling narrative, but feel that some aspects of the story are left unresolved. The review highlights the tension between the detailed buildup and the perceived lack of depth in the aftermath. While the book is engaging, hjparks finds it somewhat unsatisfying, particularly in its handling of the engineering and recovery efforts post-storm. The overall sentiment is balanced, acknowledging the strengths of the book while also pointing out its shortcomings.

Quick quotes

    Eh. This is tough. I think that the author could have done a better job of balancing the buildup with the resolution.

    The novel seems so top-heavy. I wanted more post-storm resolution, either in terms of the engineering that went into Galveston.

    The narrative is compelling, but some aspects feel incomplete.

History in the Margins · 2025-10-21
admirable 4.00

The book meticulously builds tension, showcasing the destructive force of nature and the fatal decisions that exacerbated the disaster. The narrative is gripping, highlighting the human element amidst the chaos.

History in the Margins delves into the intricate details of the hurricane and the decisions that led to its devastating impact. They praise Larson's ability to weave a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The review highlights the author's skill in portraying the human element, making the disaster feel personal and immediate. While the build-up is extensive, it serves to underscore the magnitude of the event and the gravity of the mistakes made. The overall sentiment is one of admiration for Larson's storytelling prowess, even as it critiques the tragic outcomes that could have been mitigated.

Quick quotes

    Larson uses more than half the book to build to what he terms the cataclysm, a combination of unstoppable natural power and bad decisions based on outdated scientific understanding and overconfidence.

    The narrative is gripping, highlighting the human element amidst the chaos.

    The book serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness.

Ann Boland · Ann Boland · 2021-09-06
engaging 4.50

The book is an easy and interesting read, showcasing Larson's talent for making history engaging. It is a timely reminder of the power of weather and the importance of learning from past mistakes.

Ann Boland finds Isaac's Storm to be an engaging and timely read, particularly in the context of current weather patterns. They appreciate Larson's ability to make historical events accessible and engaging, noting that the book is never disappointing. The review highlights the relevance of the story to contemporary issues, making it a thought-provoking read. Boland praises the author's skill in blending historical facts with a compelling narrative, creating a book that is both informative and entertaining. The overall sentiment is positive, with a strong recommendation for readers interested in history and weather-related disasters.

Quick quotes

    An easy and interesting read, published in 2000.

    Never been disappointed by an Erik Larson book, though some are more engaging than others.

    A timely reminder of the power of weather and the importance of learning from past mistakes.

Cannonball Read · Narfna · 2020-12-29
captivating 4.20

The book is a narrative non-fiction account of one of the most destructive hurricanes in American history. It is praised for its detailed and engaging storytelling.

The reviewer from Cannonball Read appreciates the book's detailed and engaging storytelling, which brings to life the events surrounding the hurricane. They note that the book provides a comprehensive account of the storm, highlighting the human stories and the scientific aspects. The reviewer also praises the book for its ability to make historical events feel immediate and relevant, making it a captivating read.

Quick quotes

    A narrative non-fiction account of the hurricane in 1900 that was one of the most destructive in American history.

    Isaac's Storm is really a story about the people who lived through it and the science behind the storm.

    The book is both informative and engaging, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts.

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