Rising Tide: The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and How It Changed America : Book Review

John M. Barry's book, "Rising Tide: The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and How It Changed America," offers a thorough examination of one of America's most deadly and devastating natural disasters. Barry goes into great depth to provide readers with a captivating narrative of the events surrounding the 1927 flood.

In the book, Barry meticulously recounts the moment when the Mississippi River, swollen from excessive rainfall, breached its levees and flooded an area the size of Massachusetts, forcing hundreds of thousands of people to be displaced. Through personal accounts, political insights, and scientific explanations, Barry paints a vivid picture of the disaster and its aftermath. His extensive research and attention to detail truly bring the story to life, allowing readers to fully comprehend the magnitude of the catastrophe.

One of the standout aspects of "Rising Tide" is Barry's ability to place the flood within the larger social and political context of the time. He delves into the racial dynamics that played a significant role in the disaster, shedding light on the unequal treatment and mistreatment of African American communities by both nature and society. By exploring these deep-rooted racial tensions and inequalities, the book becomes not only a gripping historical account but also a thought-provoking examination of systemic issues.

Additionally, Barry demonstrates a deep understanding of the engineering and scientific principles behind flood control and water management. He examines the controversial decisions made by government officials and engineers, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in managing the Mississippi River. This analysis adds depth and credibility to the book, elevating it beyond a simple historical retelling and encouraging readers to consider the broader implications of human interactions with nature.

Overall, John M. Barry's "Rising Tide" is a masterful work of historical non-fiction. Through meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking analysis, Barry presents a comprehensive account of the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, environmental studies, or the intersection between society and nature.

What are readers saying?

"Rising Tide: The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and How It Changed America" by John M. Barry has received predominantly positive feedback from readers. The book delves into the disastrous consequences of the 1927 Mississippi River flood and its wide-ranging impact on American society, politics, and race relations. Here is a summary of the reviews:

Readers commended Barry's extensive research and detailed historical analysis, praising the book for providing a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to and following the flood in question. They appreciated the author's ability to intertwine various storylines, including engineering challenges and political maneuverings, resulting in an engaging and informative narrative. Many found the book to be captivating, as it read like an exciting novel despite being a work of non-fiction.

The vivid descriptions of the flood's aftermath and the immense human suffering left a lasting impact on readers. Barry's writing effectively conveyed the magnitude of the disaster, with some reviewers expressing emotional responses and a renewed awareness of the harsh realities faced by the flood's victims.

Additionally, readers appreciated the book's exploration of the racial dynamics surrounding the flood. Barry sheds light on the systemic racism that exacerbated the suffering of African Americans during the disaster, uncovering the unequal treatment and lack of resources provided to black communities. Reviewers praised the author for delving into this important aspect of history and fostering conversations about the persistent racial inequalities.

While the majority of reviewers praised the book, a few felt that the extensive focus on technical details and engineering aspects occasionally overwhelmed the narrative. While acknowledging the importance of this information, they expressed a desire for a more balanced approach that would allow for a deeper exploration of the personal stories of those affected by the flood.

RisingTide MustRead HistoricalNonfiction