George Sessions Perry (1910–1956)

Published in 1944, this is the story of the U.S.S. Marblehead. A ship which was nearly, but not quite, sunk in the Pacific arena of WWII at the beginning of the war. It is the story of how against all odds, the ship was able to make it to safe harbor after an odyssey voyage of more than 9000 miles through waters full of enemy ships, submarines and air patrols.

Written in an upbeat patriotic style (published in 1944), this manages to be a very human tale. The wonderful illustrations throughout by John J. Floherty help to personalize the men, but the writers have done a fantastic job of writing about many technical details in words which a layman such as myself can understand. They made the story personal without sinking to the level of maudlin. I couldn't put the book down once the action began and ended up finishing it in one day.

It ties in with [The Story of Doctor Wassell], in that these are some of the sailors he was trying to save in Java.

I loved reading the bulletins posted for each local the ship landed at. They informed about the currency exchange, the entertainments available and those which were against the law as well as reminding sailors that they were guests and representing their country and had better do so accordingly.… (més)

This was an unexpected treat! George Sessions Perry tells the story of a year in the life of poor texan farmhand, Sam Tucker who is uneducated, married with 2 children along with "granny", his grandmother he travels from farm to farm picking cotton, working the land many times along side the negroes. Although unschooled, he has an incredible ability to look at a situation and figure out a solution. Never giving up, knowing he's poor, but feeling blessed so easily by the smallest of things. Bartering his labor for goods, shelter, money, water,... whatever. He has a positive friendly attitude. Everyone likes him except his neighbor Henry Devers who is constantly trying to sabotage his efforts. The day finally comes when Sam can't hold his outrage at the newest act Devers pulls in destroying his garden and therefore affecting his family's health & life. His positve attitude with "when there's a will there's a way" mentality serves him well and is an inspiring story. "Hold Autumn in your hand" is the knowledge his whole family receives from sending young Daisey to school. Definitely a thumbs up recommendation!

(My cover differs from any listed here so I will have to upload my personal copy of the cover for my edition.)… (més)