Tonight on the Titanic by Mary Pope Osborne

I'm looking forward to my son bringing home more books in this series. In the end, she crafted a story that was exciting, but didn't shy away from the sadness of the event. It was frequently requested by readers, but she was at first reluctant because it was such a tragic story. In an introductory message to the readers, Osborne discusses her decision to set a story aboard the Titanic. Just a whole lot of mayhem as the minutes tick away and the kids try to find some way to help, even if they can't prevent the inevitable sinking of the ship. Osborne manages to keep the level of excitement and imperilment high without even needing a villain. Once things get going, this book is non-stop fun. The bad news, of course, is that it's the Titanic. One trip through the space-time continuum later, and Jack and Annie find themselves aboard a luxurious ocean liner. First on the list: A gift from a ship lost a sea. When Jack and Annie find a puppy (who they name Teddy) in the treehouse, they also find a message from Morgan Le Fey informing them that the puppy is under a spell and several items are needed to break the enchantment.

This volume was the start of one such quest. The structure of the series has the kids going on quests that span several books. No bringing anyone back with them, and no changing history. The books in the treehouse allow the kids to travel through time with a few basic anti-paradox rules in place. The main characters, Jack and Annie (ages 8 and 7) are 'Master Librarians' for a magical treehouse library run by Morgan Le Fey (No, really.).

This was my first introduction to Mary Pope Osbourne's Magic Tree House series, and I have to say I was impressed.

He has an interest in the story of the Titanic. The Kiddo (age 6) brought this home from his school library and I read it out loud to him.

Tonight on the Titanic by Mary Pope Osborne