A Furious Sky: The Five-Hundred-Year History of America's Hurricanes

With his book A Furious Sky: The Five-Hundred-Year History of America's Hurricanes, Eric Jay Dolin offers readers a sweeping narrative that intertwines the history of the United States with the formidable power of hurricanes. This work, celebrated as one of the Washington Post's 50 Notable Works of Nonfiction in 2020 and a finalist for the Kirkus Prize for Nonfiction, is a compelling examination of how these natural disasters have shaped the nation's course over centuries.

Dolin, a best-selling author known for his ability to blend historical events with vivid storytelling, traces the impact of hurricanes from the earliest days of the New World. His narrative spans five hundred years, beginning with the storms that plagued early explorers and settlers, through the hurricanes that influenced key moments in American history, and leading up to the present day, where the threat of megastorms looms larger than ever due to climate change.

The book delves deep into the science and the human stories behind these meteorological events, introducing a rich cast of characters, from everyday citizens to the unexpected heroes who emerged in the wake of disaster. Through tales of tragedy, resilience, and innovation, Dolin highlights how hurricanes have not only shaped the physical landscape of the country but also influenced its political, social, and economic evolution.

A Furious Sky stands out not only for its detailed historical accounts but also for its reflection on the future. Dolin urges readers to consider the increasing severity of hurricanes in the context of global warming, suggesting that without significant changes in our relationship with the environment, future storms could prove even more devastating.

With 103 black-and-white illustrations and eight pages of color illustrations, the book is visually engaging and enriches the reader's understanding of the magnitude of these storms. The book has received widespread acclaim, earning a 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 500 ratings on Amazon and a 4.1 rating on Goodreads with nearly 1,500 ratings.

In summary, A Furious Sky is not just a history book but a profound exploration of the forces of nature that have continually tested the resilience of the American people. Dolin’s ability to weave scientific insights with human experiences makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how hurricanes have, and will continue to, shape the nation.