Murphy's writing style causes readers to feel as if they are experiencing the blizzard and how it literally froze life in New England. He carefully researched the history of the storm to select images and sensory details he wanted to share with readers in order to personalize and supplement statistical information about the storm. Murphy utilized primary resources preserved by historical societies and archives to determine how people who lived in New England during the blizzard perceived that experience. He also bought antiquarian books, newspapers, and illustrations. Through his narrative, he wanted to give voice to both ordinary and famous people who were affected by the blizzard and make the historical storm seem real to modern readers.

He effectively shows what life was like for people before, during, and after the blizzard, explaining why that storm was significant to American history.

Murphy consulted contemporary periodicals, especially...