The Virtual Zone: Titanic's Race to Distaster

Valentina Cesaratto is a high-school teacher specializing in dramatic
arts and film studies.

Two friends—Simon, the worrier, and Michael, the easy-goer—have a
history project to do. Rather than just read books, they secretly get
help from Mr. Sanderson, the custodian of the town’s library. He has
put the Virtual Zone together and, according to him, it is as safe as
sitting at home playing a video game. The boys, despite knowing that the
Titanic sinks, courageously put on the laser belts and transport
themselves into the past and onto the great ship, where they work as
young messenger-runners called “buttons.”

Michael and Simon take us with them on their daily activities. We spend
time in the wireless room with the telegraph machine and experience the
frustrations of communicating in Morse Code. They introduce us to the
Canadians aboard the ship. They take us to meet Captain Smith and Bruce
Ismay who brought the Titanic to its disastrous end on the night of
April 14, 1912. We become emotionally involved with the boys,
passengers, and crew on this amazing journey.

Very well written and easy to read, this book is an exciting way to
introduce history to young people. The facts are there. The emotions are
there. A glossary and bibliography are included for those who want to
learn more about the Titanic. Highly recommended.