For more than a century, poor Mrs. O'Leary and her cow have shouldered the blame for Chicago's infamous Great Fire of 1871. Now Murphy (The Boys' War; Across America on an Emigrant Train) lays bare the facts concerning one of the biggest disasters in American history, in the process exculpating the maligned bovine and her owner. Murphy demonstrates that the fire could have been contained: he unfolds a tale of botched communication, class discrimination (the fire began in a working-class section of the city and only later spread to the wealthier areas) and plain old bad luck. Strategically quoting the written accounts of witnesses-who include a 12-year-old girl and a newspaper editor-Murphy both charts the 31-hour spread of the fire and conveys the atmosphere in the streets. This volume, beautifully printed in sepia tones, contains historic photos, engravings and newspaper clippings on nearly every page. Especially helpful are maps placed at intervals throughout the book that represent the progress of the fire. Engrossing. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)
Award-winning author Jim Murphy whisks you back in time to witness the disastrous 1871 Chicago Fire. He depicts the tragedy so vividly, you can almost feel the scorching heat and hear the roar of the blaze as it reduces the bustling city to a smoldering wasteland. On a warm Sunday evening, a fire breaks out in a barn. No one worries about it-fires are common in Chicago. But soon a sea of flames is sweeping up and down the streets, devouring everything in its path. People pour into the roads, hoping to outrun the raging inferno. Their shouts ring through the night as wind carries crackling tongues of fire ahead of them, blocking their chance of escape. Weaving together accounts of actual survivors and historical writings, the author creates a thrilling book that reads like an exciting adventure story. Narrator John McDonough keeps you on the edge of your chair from the first flickering flame to the trying aftermath when Chicago rises from the ashes.
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The Great Fire
Award-winning author Jim Murphy whisks you back in time to witness the disastrous 1871 Chicago Fire. He depicts the tragedy so vividly, you can almost feel the scorching heat and hear the roar of the blaze as it reduces the bustling city to a smoldering wasteland. On a warm Sunday evening, a fire breaks out in a barn. No one worries about it-fires are common in Chicago. But soon a sea of flames is sweeping up and down the streets, devouring everything in its path. People pour into the roads, hoping to outrun the raging inferno. Their shouts ring through the night as wind carries crackling tongues of fire ahead of them, blocking their chance of escape. Weaving together accounts of actual survivors and historical writings, the author creates a thrilling book that reads like an exciting adventure story. Narrator John McDonough keeps you on the edge of your chair from the first flickering flame to the trying aftermath when Chicago rises from the ashes.
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Product Details
BN ID: | 2940170759590 |
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Publisher: | Recorded Books, LLC |
Publication date: | 03/06/2009 |
Edition description: | Unabridged |
Age Range: | 8 - 11 Years |
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