WHO WILL SURVIVE?

Three Rivers Rising, by Jame Richards, tells the story of the 1889 Johnstown Flood in a unique way. This is a novel in verse. Beginning in the summer of 1888, the poem chapters introduce us to various people whose lives will be changed by the flood -- if they survive. We meet Celestia, from a wealthy family who vacation at an elite resort on Lake Conemaugh. Also at the resort is Peter who works at the hotel. Celestia and Peter become friends, but their relationship lacks parental approval on both sides because hotel guests and hotel workers were not to socialize in the late 1800's. We also meet Joseph and Maura and their children. Joseph is a railroad engineer who is often gone from his family, but has a special whistle signal to let Maura know his train is coming in. Finally there is Kate who wants a career in the medical profession but is told she can only be a nurse. When the flood occurs, each of these people will be severely challenged to stay alive and keep their loved ones alive, too.