SuitabookCrossing Niagara
Matt Tavares
- Reading
- Read together if the height and danger may feel intense, pausing to discuss what creates suspense before continuing. Afterwards, compare Blondin’s preparation with the spectators’ reactions and distinguish historical fact from dramatic presentation.
- Themes
- Risk, courage and preparation: Blondin repeatedly crosses Niagara on a three-inch rope, checks his wires and adds more complicated feats over time. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Spectatorship and suspense: People gather to watch Blondin cross; some expect success, some expect a fall and some doubt that he will appear. The differing reactions create suspense and show public fascination, but it is unclear whether the book critiques or celebrates watching extreme danger.
- Worth knowing
- The book centres on extreme physical danger: a narrow rope high above a raging river, repeated crossings and additional tricks. Suspense includes the possibility that Blondin might fall, although the described crossings succeed.