Houdini of the Sea: Charles Lightoller's Great Escapes

By Brian Izzard

Charles Lightoller led a truly extraordinary life, repeatedly escaping death and demonstrating remarkable courage in times of crisis. He was the most senior officer to survive the Titanic disaster and went on to distinguish himself during both World Wars.

In the First World War, serving as an officer in the Royal Naval Reserve, Lightoller survived two shipwrecks, a Zeppelin bombing, and a dramatic duel with a U-boat--which he ultimately sank. For his service, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross twice. In 1940, at the age of sixty-six, he took his motor yacht--official capacity 21--to Dunkirk, where he helped evacuate nearly 130 soldiers while dodging repeated air attacks.

From a boy who went to sea at the age of thirteen, to a man who survived four shipwrecks--including the Titanic--and emerged as a hero of both World Wars, Lightoller's life was nothing short of remarkable. This new study explores his extraordinary story in depth.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1837051739
• ISBN13: 9781837051731
• Release Date: November 2026
• Publisher: The History Press
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 1.74 lbs.
• Dimensions: 6.1" x 9.2"