The Night Lives On
by Walter Lord
After the discovery of the Titanic wreck by Robert Ballard in 1985, Walter Lord wrote a follow-up to "A Night to Remember" including 30 years of new information. A perfect companion to the original. Includes even more revelations about the Californian as well as new scientific findings and fascinating stories about the lives of the survivors.

Don Lynch, the chief historian for James Cameron's "Titanic", has written a superb history of the Titanic. Including the dramatic paintings of Ken Marshall, photographs of the era and detailed stories and description, this book is required reading for every Titanic reader. The reader will learn how Titanic was built, what life aboard was like for every class of passenger, and the drama of the night she sank. The book is rich in its descriptions of Titanic and her passengers and crew. Also detailed is the aftermath and the discoveries of the Titanic wreck today. This book would be my favorite gift choice for Titanic and maritime buffs.

Mr. Wade chronicles the Titanic disaster with details from the Senate investigations and survivor accounts. This book provides a great depth of understanding concerning Titanic and the aftermath. Of particular importance are descriptions of the class system and its tragic consequences. Eyewitness testimony give the reader a "you are there" recollection of Titanic.

Dr. Robert Ballard of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute made history in 1985 when he discovered, surveyed and photographed the sunken wreck of the R.M.S Titanic. This book tells the story of his 12 year quest to find Titanic 12,500 feet below the Atlantic Ocean. Very well written and superbly illustrated, the reader gets a superb "insider" look at the financing, research, technology and determination required to undertake a massive undersea exploration. The details of Titanic's last hours and the history since round out an important chronicle of Titanic then and now.

Steven Biel takes a new approach to the Titanic. Instead of discussing the ship itself and her disaster, he explores the cultural legacy of the Titanic. Almost immediately after the sinking, people and groups sought to categorize and exploit the Titanic disaster in their own world view. Politics, music, literature and philosophy were all influenced by Titanic. The symbolism and metaphors created after 1912 still affect us today. Biel covers every detail and parts of his prose may seem a bit too scholarly for some readers. However, for anyone really interested in the total history of the Titanic, this book provides an important perspective.

Dr. Ballard, the discover of the Titanic in 1985 has written an excellent children's book. Here he describes Titanic as it was and as it is today. A very good introduction to the Titanic, full of interesting facts and color illustrations.

Although this is a fictional novel, I recommend it for young adults interested in the Titanic. It is the story of 15 year-old Barry O'Neill who is traveling on the Titanic to rejoin his parents after living with his grandparents for 10 years in Ireland. The reader shares Barry's personal concerns while he meets the many famous real people aboard. Ms. Bunting gives us an accurate dramatization of the class based life on board and the sinking itself. Her story telling will inspire young readers to learn more about the R.M.S Titanic.

Now that this title is out in an inexpensive paperback, it is worth a look. Covers many questions and issues in clear, easy to understand answers. Perfect for middle school students learning about the Titanic. Children can also have fun quizzing each other from the hundreds of pieces of Titanic.

English author Morgan Robertson wrote Futility, a fictional story about a collision between a large trans-Atlantic ocean liner, called The Titan, and an iceberg on her maiden voyage to New York. Incredibly the story was written in 1893, 14 years before the R.M.S Titanic sailed. This edition, the 100th anniversary, has an interesting preface about Robertson and his foretelling.

A detailed, wide ranging collection of information and documents on the R.M.S Titanic. Many old and new tidbits are covered including behind-the-scenes stories of Cameron's film. I would recommend this book as both and introduction and reference for those who can't get enough about the Titanic.

Ghosts of the Abyss

While it seems there is no end to the TITANIC franchise, James Cameron's breathtaking 3D documentary/recreation and this companion book are definitely among the "Must-See's." His expedition,enhanced       by Ken Marschall's always perfect art work and Don Lynch's sensitive observations and extensive knowledge combine to enlighten/inspire even the most casual TITANIC student or enthusiast. Their obvious love and dedication for the subject matter shines through on every page. The publishers are also to be commended for the fine job of assembling this lovely book. While there may be less and less to see of the TITANIC with every passing year, it's apparent that her lessons and legacy will go on forever.

Many Titanic documentaries have been made in the recent years and all have something to offer. This 1994 production is probably the most complete and fascinating film history about the Titanic. Included are archival photos and movie clips, interviews with experts and survivors and a detailed and coherent script. This is a "must see" for every Titanic enthusiast.