In February, I enjoyed reading a captivating book called The Finest Hours by Micheal J. Tougias and Casey Sherman. This book is historical fiction, and it retells an incredible true story. The story revolves around the U.S. Coast Guard’s most daring rescue mission, which took place on the night of February 18, 1952. A terrible storm hit Cape Cod, and two oil tankers, Pendleton and Fort Mercer, were caught in the middle, causing them to be torn in half. This disaster left thirty stranded sailors left on boats that could sink any minute. It was up to four brave coast guardsmen to come to their rescue, navigating through the stormy waters in a tiny lifeboat. The waves were as high as seventy-five feet, but they were determined to save the stranded sailors, who had no other hope.
I recommend The Finest Hours by Micheal J. Tougias and Casey Sherman. One reason is that you get hooked on the book from the beginning. Additionally, both authors did a good job of adding details and vivid descriptions. This makes you effortlessly visualize the story and feel like you are one of the characters in the book. Another thing the authors did well is that they build and maintain the suspense throughout the story. Also, you can learn many life lessons from this book. One lesson I learned is to be brave. In addition, if you like to read books with the theme of resilience, this is the book for you.
My favorite character in the book is Bernie Webber. He has many admirable traits, such as resilience, courage, and bravery, but his caring for others stood out. An example of him being caring is on page 132, when Bernie states, “They were there, the same as me, and did all the heavy rescuing. If they can’t get the gold, then I don’t want it.” This shows that he is aware of what his crew did. In addition, it shows he values the significant contributions the crew made to the rescue. Also, he prioritizes others over himself.
The quote that stood out to me the most in the story is on page 153, when the book states, “Determination heeds no interference.” I love this quote since it highlights the internal strength you can possess when you have a lot of determination. I can use this quote during times of struggle, because it will help me to stay motivated and focused on my goal. Another reason I love this quote is because it is the ship’s motto in the name of Bernie Webber.
