Into the Storm
Into the Storm traces the work of real-life Lionel Lukin (known at that time for expensive Lukin coaches), as he is led to invent the lifeboat. Shipwrecked near the Downs and Goodwin Sands on the English coast, Lukin is the sole survivor and has lost his entire family who were traveling with him. Wrestling with both faith and humanity, Lukin manages not only to be accepted as an equal by a tight-knit community, but also to convince them to follow his lead into the creation of that life-saving device, the lifeboat. Lionel has to struggle at times to understand the temperament and attitudes of the sailors and their families, but he saw their deep kindness as they embraced him after his tragic accident and helped bring purpose to his life once again. His knowledge of building coaches enables him to secure the trust of the local shipbuilders as he transfers that information into building the first lifeboat. Driven by a desire to ensure fewer deaths on the seas, as well as a blossoming faith, Lukin’s story is a powerful testimony.
This book fits well with all public libraries; most high school libraries would also do well to acquire this. Suitable for book clubs and reluctant readers as well. The series promises to be worth acquiring as a run.
