Erik Larson returns with the enthralling story of the sinking of the British ocean-liner RMS Lusitania. The publication of Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania coincides with the 100th anniversary of the fatal event that resulted in the deaths of more than one thousand passengers and crew. Larson renders a thrilling account of the Lusitania and a German U-boat making their way toward Liverpool, and the array of forces—hubris, a chance fog, a closely guarded secret, and more—that all converged to produce one of the great disasters of history. Switching between the hunter and the hunted, Larson captures the sheer drama and emotional power of a disaster that strongly influenced America’s eventual declaration of war two years later in 1917.
Larson is the author of five New York Times bestsellers; The Devil in the White City stayed on the Times’ hardcover and paperback lists for a combined total of over five years and was a National Book Award finalist. In the Garden of Beasts, Thunderstruck, and Isaac’s Storm have also graced the bestseller list, and Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania hit #1 on the list soon after its launch.
“In his gripping new examination of the last days of what was then the fastest cruise ship in the world, Larson brings the past stingingly alive. . . . He draws upon telegrams, war logs, love letters, and survivor depositions to provide the intriguing details, things I didn’t know I wanted to know. . . . Thrilling, dramatic and powerful.” —NPR
Before the event: Enjoy dinner in the DMA Cafe featuring a menu inspired by meals served on the Lusitania. The dinner will be served buffet-style beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tickets must be purchased by end of day Tuesday, March 29.
Hors d’oeuvres
Irish salmon blini with fresh dill crème fraîche
Baby beef tournedos on brioche with red onion marmalade
Roasted heirloom tomato tartlet
Entrée
Carving station
Roast loin of pork with apple brandy gravy
or
Crispy redfish filet with sauce “choron”
Sides
Local baby lettuces, blanched baby vegetables with an assortment of dips and dressings
Mashed potatoes
Green beans
Sweets
Mini chocolate gateau
Mini apple tart
$29 per person (includes non-alcoholic beverage)
Cash bar with wine, beer, and a selection of Lusitania-themed craft cocktails