Second Watch

$12.95

by Karen Autio

Second Watch is based on true details of Finnish immigrant culture and the sinking of the great Empress of Ireland. Over the eight years that this Canadian Pacific steamship sailed the Atlantic Ocean, it transported more than 117,000 passengers to Canada. The sinking of the Empress on May 29, 1914, remains Canada’s worst maritime disaster during peacetime. Of 1,477 passengers and crew on board, 1,012 were lost – more passengers than in the sinking of the Titanic. Yet the Empress of Ireland and its fate remain little known to most Canadians.

Description

If ordering more than five copies of this title, please contact us for a price quote.

by Karen Autio

Eleven-year-old Saara dreams of a trip to Finland to meet her grandparents. When Papa loses his job, family tensions rise and Saara’s hopes fall. How will they ever save enough for the precious tickets, or convince Papa they should go? Uncle Arvo predicted a travelling year for Saara—but her journey will take her further than anyone could have imagined.

The 1914 tragedy of the steamship Empress of Ireland, Canada’s worst nautical disaster in peacetime, provides an historical basis for this compelling tale of hardship and hope, faith and family. Spirited Saara comes to life in the vivid world of Finnish immigrant culture in northwestern Ontario. Join her as she navigates a challenging time at home, and as she seeks passage on the majestic Empress of Ireland.

JUVENILE FICTION • Ages 8–13 • 198 pp • 5.25 x 7.75
ISBN 978-1-55039-151-0 • paper • map and historical photos • $12.95