THE GREAT DELUGE: HURRICANE KATRINA, NEW ORLEANS, AND THE
MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST by Douglas Brinkley
Reviewed by CDR Joseph J. Leonard, Jr., CDR, USCG (ret.)
In The Great Deluge, Douglas Brinkley delivers a searing and comprehensive account
of Hurricane Katrina, chronicling the storm's devastating physical impact, the resulting
humanitarian catastrophe, and the systemic failures of leadership that compounded the
crisis. As both a New Orleans resident and historian, Brinkley combines meticulous
research with an empathetic narrative, vividly portraying the harrowing experiences of
those who lived through the disaster. The book begins by detailing the ferocity of
Hurricane Katrina, which slammed into the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005, with 150-
mile-per-hour winds that obliterated cities and infrastructure. Brinkley recounts how the
storm surge flooded 80% of New Orleans, leaving a half-million homes underwater and
displacing hundreds of thousands of residents. This unprecedented natural disaster,
however, was only the first act in a triple tragedy that revealed profound flaws in
governmental preparedness and response.
Brinkley’s investigation of the storm's aftermath exposes staggering failures at every
level of government. He critiques New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin for his inequitable
evacuation plan that prioritized the affluent, Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco for her
indecision during a critical moment of fear and confusion, and FEMA Director Michael
Brown for his apparent detachment from the unfolding chaos. These leadership
shortcomings, Brinkley argues, turned a natural disaster into a human tragedy, leaving
vulnerable communities to bear the brunt of neglect and mismanagement. Amid the
systemic failures, Brinkley highlights stories of heroism that shine a light on the
resilience and humanity of individuals in the face of overwhelming adversity. Coast
Guard Commander Jimmy Duckworth’s tireless rescue efforts and journalist Tony
Zumbado’s unflinching coverage of the crisis emerge as examples of selfless
leadership. Brinkley masterfully weaves survivor testimonials into the narrative, giving
voice to those who endured the unthinkable and emphasizing the importance of their
stories in understanding the full scope of the disaster.
What sets The Great Deluge apart is its blend of rigorous research and deeply human
storytelling. Brinkley uses interviews, official records, and firsthand accounts to dissect
the Katrina crisis, offering insights into the cascading failures that exacerbated the
storm's impact. His critique of leadership is unflinching yet balanced, recognizing not
only the failures but also the potential for meaningful change. Brinkley’s work serves as
both a historical record and a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the critical need for
competent, compassionate leadership in times of crisis. He underscores the importance
of preparation, equitable decision-making, and the ability to act decisively under
pressure.
YLD Key Leadership Takeaway: Effective leadership during a crisis demands
preparedness, clear communication, and an unwavering commitment to equity and humanity.
The failure to prioritize these principles can turn a disaster into an enduring
tragedy.
ISBN: 13: 9780061148491