Synopses & Reviews
In December 1915, San Diegos leaders claimed the towns reservoirs were nearly dry. Knowing the city would not survive and grow unless it had water, they hired Charles Mallory Hatfield, whose skills at making rain were legendary. But when torrents and torrents of rain came, disaster struck. Roads were closed, people drowned, and dams burst. The town elders blamed Hatfield and refused to pay him. Was Hatfield really a rain wizard, or simply a fraud? Renowned author Larry Dane Brimner examines the man and the myth by relying on personal recollections from growing up in California, as well as extensive research. Readers will be captivated by Hatfield—a man once known as the Frankenstein of the air—and his secret rainmaking formulas. Includes authors note, source notes, and bibliography.
Review
In December 1915, San Diego's reservoirs were nearly empty, so the city turned to Charles Mallory Hatfield, whose skills at making rain were legendary
In this attractively designed and illustrated biography, Brimner offers a fascinating, well-timed portrait of an enigmatic character
The generously leaded text is set within wide margins and accompanied by copious archival illustrations; both decisions keep the relatively complex text accessible. An engaging, intriguing story of a fascinating man.” Kirkus Reviews
This well-written and attractive book
(is a) well-designed, impeccably researched work.” School Library Journal, starred review
Most kids have never heard of Charles Mallory Hatfield, but this fascinating biography will help remedy that
The books design is a standout, with intriguing historical photos filling the pages and a typeface that makes this invitingly easy to read.” Booklist, starred review
Brimner (Strike! The Farmworkers' Fight for Their Rights) brings to light the story of enigmatic, entrepreneurial rainmaker Charles Hatfield
. (a) well-researched tale...” Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Larry Dane Brimner: Larry Dane Brimner has written about civil rights in four titles published by Calkins Creek: We Are One: The Story of Bayard Rustin; Birmingham Sunday; Black and White: The Confrontation Between Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth and Eugene Bull” Connor, a Sibert Honor book; and Strike! The Farm Workers Fight for Their Rights. He lives in Tucson, Arizona, and San Diego, California. Visit brimner.com.