The Big Burn

In The Big Burn, Timothy Egan recounts the devastating forest fire of August 20, 1910, which became a pivotal moment in American history and solidified Teddy Roosevelt's legacy in conservation. Through the gripping struggles of forest rangers and the valiant efforts of thousands to combat the raging inferno across the drought-stricken landscapes of Washington, Idaho, and Montana, Egan illustrates both the human and environmental stakes involved. The narrative not only highlights the heroism of those who fought the flames but also chronicles the larger battle for public land ownership, reshaping public opinion and the mission of the forest service for generations to come.