American Phoenix: The Remarkable Story of William Skinner, a Man Who Turned Disaster Into Destiny

This is a great book about a great man who came from the slums of England. In 1845, at the age of 20 years old he sailed to America, by himself. He worked hard, became very successful until the worst disaster in American history, at that time, swept though 4 New England towns leaving 800 homeless and killing 139 people. Mr. Skinner lost nearly everything, but through his perseverance, he rebuilt his life, for a second time. "...William Skinner, the most influential Englishman to land in America knowing only one skill, how to dye silk, and ultimately clothed millions of Americans", Reader's Digest. Some of those that he clothed were Joan Crawford and Greta Garbo. This is an unforgettable and compelling book that you will have trouble putting down.