Plot Summary

Close To Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916

Michael Capuzzo
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Close To Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1916

Book Brief

Michael Capuzzo

Close To Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1916
Book Details
Pages

317

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New Jersey • 1910s

Topic
US History

Animals

Science & Nature
Publication Year

1916

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

Close to Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916 by Michael Capuzzo chronicles the harrowing events of the summer of 1916 along the New Jersey shore when a rogue great white shark attacked beachgoers in Beach Haven and Spring Lake, eventually venturing into Matawan Creek and causing multiple fatalities, leading to a frenzied hunt and lasting public fear. The book details instances of severe injury and death.

Dark

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,783 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Close To Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916 by Michael Capuzzo is a riveting blend of history and true crime, capturing the fear and fascination of the first documented shark attacks on American shores. Praised for its meticulous research and gripping narrative, some readers felt the pacing lagged in historical context sections. Overall, an engaging, albeit occasionally dense, read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Close To Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916?

Ideal for history buffs and true crime aficionados, readers of Michael Capuzzo's Close to Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916 will enjoy its meticulous research and gripping narrative. Comparable to Erik Larson's Dead Wake or Peter Benchley's Jaws, it vividly blends historical drama with suspenseful storytelling.

4.1

7,783 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Michael Capuzzo's book Close To Shore not only delves into the infamous 1916 shark attacks, but also includes richly detailed descriptions of early 20th-century American seaside culture and the societal impact of the attacks.

The book provides insight into how the 1916 shark attacks were pivotal in changing scientific opinions about sharks, illustrating a shift from considering them harmless to recognizing their potential danger.

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Close To Shore combines historical research with dramatic narrative storytelling, showcasing Capuzzo's background as a journalist and his ability to bring historical events vividly to life.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Book Details
Pages

317

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New Jersey • 1910s

Topic
US History

Animals

Science & Nature
Publication Year

1916

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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