They Hold the Line: Wildfires, Wildlands, and the Firefighters Who Brave Them

(Hardback)

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Description

A tribute to the unsung heroes of firefighting that takes readers along on a high-stakes mission to battle one of the deadliest natural disasters. A lone figure stands on a tower, watching and waiting. Lightning strikes. Tree bark sparks. A wisp of white smoke rises in the distance. It is time to act. Frightening images of raging wildfires top the daily news. On the ground, smoke fills the air as people prepare to flee their homes ahead of encroaching flames. Who helps to get this crisis under control And what do these heroes do They hold the line. They Hold the Line delivers a dramatic inside look at the work of the highly trained first responders who risk their lives to fight wildfires. From hotshot handcrews to those who support them, wildland firefighters serve as stewards of the land, managing the health of our forests and the safety of our communities. Powerfully written by Dan Paley and brought vividly to life by artist Molly Mendoza, this compelling and informative book explores wildland firefighters' complex jobs in a fascinating and approachable way. Thoroughly researched and packed with graphics, labels, sidebars, vocabulary, scientific concepts, historical facts, and so much more, They Hold the Line is an outstanding resource for young readers, families, communities, classrooms, and libraries.

Author Bio

Dan Paley has an undergraduate degree in geography and planning and a graduate degree in science writing. He was inspired to create this book when, looking from the doorstep of his family home at fire on a distant ridge, he reassured his three young sons that expert firefighters were there to help. He lives with his family in Irvine, California. Learn more at danpaley.com. Molly Mendoza explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships and strives to portray those feelings that we just can't shake through their work. From fiery anger to the roar of joy, they depict emotions through mark and color. Her practice over time has expanded into comics, editorial work, painting, and murals. When she isn't telling stories or drawing big tears, she is probably hanging out with her cat, Doodle. She currently lives in Portland, Oregon. Learn more at mollymendoza.com.