Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: Flames of Labor Reform

by Michelle M. Houle

Discusses the 1911 fire that killed 146 New York garment factory workers, the conditions that led up to it, and some of the legislation that came about to prevent the occurrence of similar disasters.

Genres: Nonfiction

48 pages, Library Binding

First published September 1, 2002

Reviews

[Jenn M · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is written for lower-middle grade level audience to briefly examine the historic event of the fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in March, 1911. While the book includes much historical detail about the immediate events of the day of the fire, some of the events presented as facts, at first glance, seem to be merely surmised from the historical record by the author. I believe this is due to the author's attempt to write about these events for younger readers, and therefore does not include some of the supporting details that would be included in a longer, adult work. I do support teaching school children about historical events, even tragedies where people may experience horrible consequences. However, it is always hoped that reviewing and remembering such events is in order that some good comes of the tragedy. I know from my own readings about this tragic fire, that safety of factory workers became one of the highest priorities in its aftermath, and overall, this particular fire is remembered as a turning point in the issue of worker safety and protection of laborers. But, this book, in my opinion, summarizes the aftermath of the fire and only briefly describes the public outrage and worker movements that worked to turn the tragedy into something positive so that no other workers would have to die in similar circumstances. The author uses pages to list other infamous fires which points out more tragedy, but does not give equal time to the heroic, in my opinion, and thus, one is left with more of the horrible, and less of the optimistic dawning of change.

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting low middle school level overview of this historic event.

[Giavonna Bryan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Incredibly short read that leaves MUCH to be desired. It reads more like a report the author had to write on the subject than a well thought out book. SO MUCH is left out, so few facts addressed or contemporary sources used. Even for a middle school level there is little to be learned from this book alone. The fact that Frances Perkins’ name is not mentioned even ONCE is absolutely shameful. The only two victims discussed by name seem to only serve a purpose for dramatic imagery, with the rest being essentially written off as “poor, uneducated Italian and Jewish girls”. If you want a BARE BONES, CURSORY level, highly superficial account of what happened that has less information than the Wikipedia article on the subject and treats the victims with about as much care or consideration as your standard brief History Channel segment, then this is the book for you. The youngest victim of the fire was 14-the age group this was intended for. Frankly I believe 14 year olds can handle a little more and deserve to know the context and surrounding the events that made this fire possible as well as the aftermath.

[Rhonda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This would be a good read for elementary age readers. It gives the basics of the story, with mentions of specific individuals affected by the fire. It also discusses the movement to change labor and safety laws that happened because of this tragedy.

[hannah ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was wondering why this was so short and didn’t go into too much depth and I realized it’s for middle schoolers lol my b. Important topic though!

[Deedee · Rating 3 out of 5]

VERY SHORT story - almost to the point of disappointing.