The Forgotten Storm: The Great Tri-state Tornado of 1925

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Summary: Informative historical account of the 1925 Tri-State Tornado
Review: This carefully written account of the 1925 monstrous tornado is informative, moving, and provides an intersting glimpse of life in 1920s small town America. Akin's detailed explanation of the tornado's formation, destructive path, and the first person accounts of it's impact are worth reading for both history buffs and weather enthusiasts alike. It is noteworthy that the storm usually hit without any warning, despite travelling over 200 miles - communication was much less advanced in the '20s than I realized! I was pleasantly surprised that the author did not overwhelm the reader with the storm's effects on him personally. His writing style is straight-forward yet wrapped in appreciation for the heroic actions of the rescuers and those who aided in recovery. Akin's pride in his boyhood home area of "Little Egypt" Illinois also shine through as the story unfolds. The book's final chapter mentions other disastrous tornadoes in the US where the reader will learn that in earlier days, the death and injury to black persons generally was not recorded, as if they had never existed. The author seems to be pleading that we not forget these souls, nor forget this terrible tragedy that is rapidly fading from our collective memories. Thankfully we live in a better day for all citizens as well as being better warned when these storms strike our land.