Newbery Award-winning author Russell Freedman (Angel Island) and illustrator William Low delve into the waters of Sweden to uncover the story of the Vasa, a navy warship that sank during its maiden voyage in August of 1628.
Freedman briefly outlines the two years of construction it took to create this "vessel so fearsome, the very sight of her would shiver the timbers of any enemy ship." Low's corresponding, lifelike digital images reinforce the enormity of the project and its meticulous detail. Freedman imbues his narrative with a tone of foreboding suspense as he shifts to the Vasa's first, doomed excursion: "Water gushed through the open gunports. A moment later, the ship's deck railings were slapping against the waves, then disappearing underwater." Likewise, Low's illustrations evoke the rocking motion of the water and the tipping of the ship.
A transition forward three centuries occurs at the book's midpoint, paired with a stunning gatefold featuring the Vasa underwater as the navy attempts to bring it to the surface. Concluding the tale with a similarly compressed retelling of the vessel's restoration, Freedman inspires hope when discussing the original cannons: "In their silence lies a king's misguided dream of military might. And the Vasa, in her restored glory, is herself a testament to peace."
The Sinking of the Vasa is sure to spark the interest of history and maritime buffs. Freedman gives readers a delicious taste of this grand story--spiced up by Low's atmospheric illustrations--and his list of sources at the conclusion offers a full buffet of further reading options. The Vasa may have sunk, but Freedman and Low's recounting is a glorious trip through her amazing legend. --Jen Forbus, freelancer