Historical Fiction for boys & girls
This book definitely is one of those can't-put-it-down reads - well written, fast paced and highly informative, to boot. Guaranteed. ~Nancy Hoch, Idaho State Journal
Exciting, riveting Idaho history - that's what you will find in "Fire in the Hole." Written for young adults, this first book by former journalist Mary Cronk Farrell tells the story of the violent clash between union and "scab" silver miners in northern Idaho a century ago; the appeal is strong for readers of all ages.
Historical fiction at its best, the book sees the miners' wrenching struggle through the eyes of 14-year-old Mick Shea, son of one of the radical and frustrated union employees. The story poses immense problems that build and build through rapid, page-turning sequences. For
certain, you will learn a huge amount about a true, almost unbelievable
standoff between African-American federal troops that were called in and the striking men who mined for silver in the Coeur d'Alene area.
You will empathize with a sensitive boy whose entire family is faced with deplorable treatment and even death itself as they battle for what they believe are their rights - the antagonistic father fighting for more money from the mine owners - the son fighting for his right to an education and a chance to choose a life outside the mines, which he has come to hate.
Buy the book
Amazon
For an autographed copy contact Mary
Kirkus Reviews~ "...story of family, dreams, and an important segment of American history."
BCCB Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books~ "swiftly paced story of physical and moral valor incorporating actual events"
School Library Journal~ "...A gripping tale of survival that uses its historical background to add depth and drama."
Booklist~ "Characters and their motivations ring true...A good choice for historical fiction buffs."
VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)~ "A compelling historical novel...both gripping and poignant...fast paced and peopled with vivid, believable characters."
A Book and a Hug
Here is an uncomplicated yet thoughtful and fast paced story set at Wardner, Idaho in 1899 around its mining area....Labor fiction doesn't get much play although English, history, and economic classes can easily utilize it for assignments and research. Probably the best "labor" novel but least known John Steinbeck novel is In Dubious Battle written in 1936. Read more...
Exciting, riveting Idaho history - that's what you will find in "Fire in the Hole." Written for young adults, this first book by former journalist Mary Cronk Farrell tells the story of the violent clash between union and "scab" silver miners in northern Idaho a century ago; the appeal is strong for readers of all ages.
Historical fiction at its best, the book sees the miners' wrenching struggle through the eyes of 14-year-old Mick Shea, son of one of the radical and frustrated union employees. The story poses immense problems that build and build through rapid, page-turning sequences. For
certain, you will learn a huge amount about a true, almost unbelievable
standoff between African-American federal troops that were called in and the striking men who mined for silver in the Coeur d'Alene area.
You will empathize with a sensitive boy whose entire family is faced with deplorable treatment and even death itself as they battle for what they believe are their rights - the antagonistic father fighting for more money from the mine owners - the son fighting for his right to an education and a chance to choose a life outside the mines, which he has come to hate.
Buy the book
Amazon
For an autographed copy contact Mary
Kirkus Reviews~ "...story of family, dreams, and an important segment of American history."
BCCB Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books~ "swiftly paced story of physical and moral valor incorporating actual events"
School Library Journal~ "...A gripping tale of survival that uses its historical background to add depth and drama."
Booklist~ "Characters and their motivations ring true...A good choice for historical fiction buffs."
VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)~ "A compelling historical novel...both gripping and poignant...fast paced and peopled with vivid, believable characters."
A Book and a Hug
Here is an uncomplicated yet thoughtful and fast paced story set at Wardner, Idaho in 1899 around its mining area....Labor fiction doesn't get much play although English, history, and economic classes can easily utilize it for assignments and research. Probably the best "labor" novel but least known John Steinbeck novel is In Dubious Battle written in 1936. Read more...
Honors
New York Public Library Best Books for the Teenage 2006
Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People 2005
Bank Street College Best Children’s Books 2005
Fire in the Hole! wins prestigious 2005 SPUR Award
The Spur is awarded annually for distinguished writing about the American West and is among the oldest and most prestigious honors in American literature.
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