This was a really quick read and I loved all the illustrations in the book. I was immediately drawn to the book because of the cover and the title and when I saw all the illustrations inside and all the beautiful dresses I knew I had to get this book. The premise on the back sounded interesting as well, going back in time to find that you're on the Titanic, seems like it would be a good read to me. unfortunately the story wasn't as great as I thought it would be. The beginning of the book doesn't seem that interesting, things start getting better once Louise finds out she's on the Titanic and then once the ship actually starts sinking that when things get really good but unfortunately that part is short lived. Overall it was an ok book to me but I think it would be really good for girls in the 10-13 age range. ( )

This was a fun book, cute illustrations, interesting background - The Titanic. However, I did not realize the protagonist was so young, 12. This does not deter the book in any way, I was just expecting someone older, I suppose her age made it harder for me to connect with her. Turetsky uses the cliché lesson "be yourself"/"love yourself". Which is good message for 12 year-olds, but I've seen it done better. I feel like Turetsky was not focusing on the message too much so it was not built up.
Enjoyable book, but maybe a tad boring. Will read the sequel. ( )

Writing a book about a 12-year-old for other 12-year-olds to read is a challenging thing to do. It has been my experience that most tweenagers, myself included back in the early days of the new millennium, only want to read about older and (seemingly) more mature and sophisticated protagonists that they can, nevertheless, still relate to. Bianca Turetsky, therefore, has 12-year-old Louise don a dress that leads to her embodying her ancestor, 17-year-old Alice Baxter. While a seemingly meaningless detail, it will do wonders in alluring 12-year-olds into Louise’s desire for a high fashion world!

I am not 12 anymore, this is true. However, as a middle grades teacher, I’m always looking for fresh and interesting books for my students and my selfish love of history leads me towards historical fiction, a genre I love, but one where my standards for writing and research are incredibly high. Louise is adorable and she transitions into Miss Baxter’s life as well as any 21st century girl can be expected to. She’s an incredibly likeable protagonist, save one major detail…

The major theme of the novel is that Louise appreciates vintage clothing, not just for the pure gorgeousness of it, but because she (supposedly) understands that vintage clothes have a story, a history, and that they still carry on the spirit of the women who wore such remarkable garments. Therefore, one should reasonably be able to assume that Louise has a decent working knowledge of major historical events, as they pertain to her love of fashion. I was, and still am, incredibly surprised that Louise did not immediately recognize that she was on the Titanic. It is due to Louise’ ignorance that I have rated this book as somewhat mediocre. For once, I’d like to read about a time traveling heroine who understands and appreciates the significance of their journey on a deeper level. ( )

It was okay for a middle-grade book. Louise behaved her age. She was well-meaning but her plan aboard the Titanic wasn't thought-out.

It was a very thin plot. Aside from the little drama of the sinking, there was little to no arc at all. I can't even pinpoint what Louise's story was supposed to be (or if she learned something from her adventures). I can capitulate that she learned that she's absolutely fine with being herself and in her own body but the way it was executed (aside from the Titanic drama) was...

However, I love the drawings of the dresses and it was a treat looking at them. ( )

I liked the cover of this middle school age book so much I just had to check it out. I was not disappointed. The author combined the history of the titanic, fashion and a dash of magic to make a very fun read. The illustrations were gorgeous as well.
I hope another one comes out soon! ( )