The Great Fire

by Jim Murphy Narrated by Taylor Mali

Overview

The Great Fire of 1871 was one of the most colossal disasters in American history-with damage so profound that few people believed the city of Chicago could ever rise again. By weaving personal accounts of actual survivors together with careful research, Jim Murphy constructs a riveting and dramatic narrative, ultimately revealing how the human spirit triumphed even in a time of deepest despair, and the people of Chicago found the courage and strength to build their city once again.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

A Newbery Honor Book"The Great Fire will automatically draw readers with its fiery cover and illustrations of disaster, but the text will keep them reading." — Booklist"[Murphy] puts the incident in perspective, giving it stunning immediacy for contemporary readers." — Kirkus Reviews

AUG/SEP 00 - AudioFile

The burning of Chicago in 1871 is one of the great legends of American history. Like its counterpart in seventeenth-century London, it has become imbued with invention. Murphy removes the tale of Mrs. O'Leary's cow, giving us more substantial fare. Hearing about the inception of the blaze, the conditions that fostered it, the incompetence allowing its spread and the plight of individuals is far more stimulating than an overturned lantern. History isn't glamorous, but it can be exciting. Unfortunately, Murphy's text sometimes suffers from a dryness that McDonough is unable to counteract. Still, he reads smoothly, letting his audience enjoy the true episodes behind the great myth. S.B.S. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine

Product Details

BN ID:	2940169776003
Publisher:	Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Publication date:	11/01/2011
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

Videos