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Burnt: A Memoir of Fighting Fire
Burnt is a captivating and “evocative” (Erin Brockovich) memoir of trailblazing and firefighting from California’s first—and only—female chief of fire protection, a pioneering woman in a male-dominated field.
Burnt is a book about finding your calling, even if it’s an unexpected one. It’s about finding your home, even if you aren’t immediately welcomed. And it’s about reaching the top and making a difference, even if you don’t look like you fit in.
When Clare Frank was 17 years old, she became a firefighter in Northern California. Clare was five-foot-two and officially too young to join the service—she left her birthdate blank on her paperwork, hoping no one would notice. And she didn’t look like her peers, who sported an Adam’s apple and a mustache. But her brother was a firefighter and loved it, so she thought she’d try it out, too. Very soon, she knew she had found her calling.
Burnt is Frank’s inspiring, richly detailed, and open-hearted account of an extraordinary life in fire. It chronicles the transformation of a young adult determined to prove her mettle into a scarred and sensitive veteran, grappling with the weight of her duties as chief of fire protection—one of the highest-ranking women in Cal Fire history—while record-setting fires engulf her home state. Mentors and mediocre managers, funerals and scandal, pickup basketball, car crashes, and always fire—no one has written about this world, from this perspective, like Clare Frank. She masterfully mixes irreverence and awe, taking readers inside firehouses, on daily calls, and along to gigantic wildfires where antics and dark humor balance terrifying risk, trauma, and a sense of almost holy responsibility. A Memoir of Fighting Fire is an unforgettable memoir from an American original.
Burnt is a book about finding your calling, even if it’s an unexpected one. It’s about finding your home, even if you aren’t immediately welcomed. And it’s about reaching the top and making a difference, even if you don’t look like you fit in.
When Clare Frank was 17 years old, she became a firefighter in Northern California. Clare was five-foot-two and officially too young to join the service—she left her birthdate blank on her paperwork, hoping no one would notice. And she didn’t look like her peers, who sported an Adam’s apple and a mustache. But her brother was a firefighter and loved it, so she thought she’d try it out, too. Very soon, she knew she had found her calling.
Burnt is Frank’s inspiring, richly detailed, and open-hearted account of an extraordinary life in fire. It chronicles the transformation of a young adult determined to prove her mettle into a scarred and sensitive veteran, grappling with the weight of her duties as chief of fire protection—one of the highest-ranking women in Cal Fire history—while record-setting fires engulf her home state. Mentors and mediocre managers, funerals and scandal, pickup basketball, car crashes, and always fire—no one has written about this world, from this perspective, like Clare Frank. She masterfully mixes irreverence and awe, taking readers inside firehouses, on daily calls, and along to gigantic wildfires where antics and dark humor balance terrifying risk, trauma, and a sense of almost holy responsibility. A Memoir of Fighting Fire is an unforgettable memoir from an American original.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published May 23, 2023
86 people are currently reading
3117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 16, 2023
In another life, I want to be a wildland firefighter. That ship has sailed as far as this life goes, but "fire memoir" is one of my pet subgenres, and Frank has seen a little bit of everything—from seasonal firefighting to permanent positions to working her way up the ranks. For all the fire memoirs I've read, precious few have been written by women (though Caroline Paul's Fighting Fire is an enduring favorite), and fewer (read: none) have covered life as part of the brass. Burnt changes that.
Burnt starts relatively slowly (and it is taking everything in me not to make a pun here), with Frank in the thick of it but not on the ground, but if you're looking for the more classic firefighting story, that's here in spades too, from early days of training to hours and days spent battling wildfires to responding to accident scenes. Despite (well-intentioned) parents who understood girls' options to boil down to "mother" or "nun," Frank was hell-bent on carving her own path...and so what we get here is a singular path forged by fire and determination.
I'm very intrigued by the variation in the stations where she worked—I suppose I'm used to either stories of city firefighters, who battle structural fires and so on, or stories of wildland firefighters, whose entire careers can be shaped by the seasonal rhythms of fire. Frank managed to land somewhere in the middle, between her first love of wildland firefighting and her later work in more built-up areas, each with their own successes and challenges. It's also perhaps worth noting that, although much of the book takes place twenty or more years ago, many of the parts attributable to climate (dry years leading to devastating fires, for example) will resonate today. I can only imagine what someone in Frank's position today might have to write twenty years from now.
Frank is smart about the book's structure, avoiding a linear timeline that would bog down the back end (no shade to the brass and other people working vital desk jobs to get things organized and funded, but for most of us, it's less fun to read about). There is still some inevitable deceleration, but then, with a book built around the stages of a fire...perhaps that's inevitable.
Also, perhaps, inevitable: one of these days I'll have to split my "row like your boat is on fire" Goodreads shelf into "row, row, row your boat" and "burn, baby, burn"...
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
Burnt starts relatively slowly (and it is taking everything in me not to make a pun here), with Frank in the thick of it but not on the ground, but if you're looking for the more classic firefighting story, that's here in spades too, from early days of training to hours and days spent battling wildfires to responding to accident scenes. Despite (well-intentioned) parents who understood girls' options to boil down to "mother" or "nun," Frank was hell-bent on carving her own path...and so what we get here is a singular path forged by fire and determination.
I'm very intrigued by the variation in the stations where she worked—I suppose I'm used to either stories of city firefighters, who battle structural fires and so on, or stories of wildland firefighters, whose entire careers can be shaped by the seasonal rhythms of fire. Frank managed to land somewhere in the middle, between her first love of wildland firefighting and her later work in more built-up areas, each with their own successes and challenges. It's also perhaps worth noting that, although much of the book takes place twenty or more years ago, many of the parts attributable to climate (dry years leading to devastating fires, for example) will resonate today. I can only imagine what someone in Frank's position today might have to write twenty years from now.
Frank is smart about the book's structure, avoiding a linear timeline that would bog down the back end (no shade to the brass and other people working vital desk jobs to get things organized and funded, but for most of us, it's less fun to read about). There is still some inevitable deceleration, but then, with a book built around the stages of a fire...perhaps that's inevitable.
Also, perhaps, inevitable: one of these days I'll have to split my "row like your boat is on fire" Goodreads shelf into "row, row, row your boat" and "burn, baby, burn"...
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
August 16, 2023
A great memoir of a career spent firefighting, mostly around the Bay Area of California. Clare Frank joined up as a seasonal firefighter at age 17 and never looked back, moving up the ranks until ending her career as the first woman appointed State Fire Chief. Happily, she’s also an excellent storyteller, with a flair for vivid detail and for bringing the reader into her experiences. There’s a lot to cover here and she does it in a very engaging way; naturally she has some very dramatic stories and some funny ones, as well as opening a window on a subculture I knew little about. Firefighters respond to everything from car accidents and medical emergencies to burning buildings and—in California—the big one, wildfires, and Frank has seen it all and is here to tell us her best stories.
She also has a strong voice that seems very suited to her chosen career—she comes across as a very athletic, competitive person, also a smartass and a prankster and a bit foul-mouthed. This made her ideally suited to break into a heavily male-dominated profession starting in the 80’s—Frank doesn’t seem especially bothered by sexism or harassment, as she’s always able to prove herself or turn the tables with a joke that gets male onlookers on her side; obviously handy skills to have, and she seems to have realized only belatedly that not all women are so lucky. It is fun to watch her succeed though, and despite having the great good fortune to find a calling at 17, she does have some definite struggles and winds up taking a nontraditional path. I appreciate reading memoirs from people with some life experience behind them, and it’s interesting to see how Frank’s views on fire change after retirement, moving from an enthusiastic love of her profession to the sense that fire is a natural phenomenon and maybe people shouldn’t be so quick to build in its way.
My biggest criticism is that there are a lot of chapters focused on the office job in which Frank ended her career, largely dealing with PR crises, and she tries to imbue them with more drama and intensity than in my judgment they really have. These are interspersed with other chapters so it never becomes too much, and I’m sure she had some good reason for it (to convince other firefighters that moving up into administration isn’t as dull as they think, perhaps?), but I wasn’t entirely buying.
Still, overall this is an excellent, entertaining and well-written memoir, one that should appeal to anyone interested in firefighting as well as those who just like to read about experiences different from their own.
She also has a strong voice that seems very suited to her chosen career—she comes across as a very athletic, competitive person, also a smartass and a prankster and a bit foul-mouthed. This made her ideally suited to break into a heavily male-dominated profession starting in the 80’s—Frank doesn’t seem especially bothered by sexism or harassment, as she’s always able to prove herself or turn the tables with a joke that gets male onlookers on her side; obviously handy skills to have, and she seems to have realized only belatedly that not all women are so lucky. It is fun to watch her succeed though, and despite having the great good fortune to find a calling at 17, she does have some definite struggles and winds up taking a nontraditional path. I appreciate reading memoirs from people with some life experience behind them, and it’s interesting to see how Frank’s views on fire change after retirement, moving from an enthusiastic love of her profession to the sense that fire is a natural phenomenon and maybe people shouldn’t be so quick to build in its way.
My biggest criticism is that there are a lot of chapters focused on the office job in which Frank ended her career, largely dealing with PR crises, and she tries to imbue them with more drama and intensity than in my judgment they really have. These are interspersed with other chapters so it never becomes too much, and I’m sure she had some good reason for it (to convince other firefighters that moving up into administration isn’t as dull as they think, perhaps?), but I wasn’t entirely buying.
Still, overall this is an excellent, entertaining and well-written memoir, one that should appeal to anyone interested in firefighting as well as those who just like to read about experiences different from their own.
October 5, 2022
A fascinating glimpse into the world of firefighting by a trailblazing female firefighter that requires no background in the subject to enjoy!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advance copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advance copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 13, 2022
As a NJ volunteer firefighter and member of the NJ Forest Fire Service, I was awed by this memoir by Clare Frank -- a firefighter from California who truly exemplifies what a firefighter should be.
Yes, she made mistakes in her career, but she owned them & always worked for the better good of all she served. If you love, know, are, or have ever had your life touched by a firefighter you should read this book. And, honestly, if you don't fall into one of those categories you should ABSOLUTELY read this book because you have NO IDEA what they & their families (both personal & professional) go through on a daily basis. I thought I had an inkling, but with each flip of the page I became more enamored and amazed by Clare.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Clare Frank!
Yes, she made mistakes in her career, but she owned them & always worked for the better good of all she served. If you love, know, are, or have ever had your life touched by a firefighter you should read this book. And, honestly, if you don't fall into one of those categories you should ABSOLUTELY read this book because you have NO IDEA what they & their families (both personal & professional) go through on a daily basis. I thought I had an inkling, but with each flip of the page I became more enamored and amazed by Clare.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Clare Frank!
August 25, 2022
As someone who was also a female firefighter - I had high hopes in this book. Unfortunately I had a really hard time connecting with the story and really getting invested. I appreciate the author writing about her experience in a male dominated industry, because that perspective is one that should be recognized more often. This book wasn’t a favorite of mine, personally.
Thank you NetGalley for giving me access to this book.
Thank you NetGalley for giving me access to this book.
June 4, 2023
First of all, I'm a self-proclaimed memoir expert/junkie. I exclusively read memoirs that cover many subjects. Having published a memoir, I know how hard it is to write your story for the world to read, making yourself vulnerable to judgment. It's hard to get your story out of your mind and into the masses without some sort of fear and doubt of pissing some people off. Even though you cover your arse (que the Lawyers) with name changes, timeline changes, and physical characteristics of people in your story, those who know, KNOW, and YOU know they KNOW.
BURNT is a 6-star read. Clare's story covers a lot, and I can only assume it was a MONSTER to edit down to a book that wouldn't sink a ship! I related to many of her stories, having been a seasonal firefighter in the early days, 1978, and years later as a California state bureaucrat at the executive level, putting out other types of "fires." Clare had her plate full with California's devistating fires during her tenure at the executive level.
As dangerous as being on the fire-line is, I think I'd rather be there than in front of ignorant elected officials at the state Capitol begging for vehicles and justifying your departments existance! UGGGHH!!
I blazed (pun intended) through Clare's amazing read from her start as a 17-year-old seasonal firefighter, to 2nd in command of CalFire and a law degree in between. In over 30 years and beyond, Clare kept pushing the envelope and breaking barriers, even in retirement.
For all the ladies in the world wanting to find inspiration in their careers and life choices, get this book and pass it along to all the young women in your life.
Well Done Chief Frank you freaking ROCK!
Jan Mendoza
FireGirl
BURNT is a 6-star read. Clare's story covers a lot, and I can only assume it was a MONSTER to edit down to a book that wouldn't sink a ship! I related to many of her stories, having been a seasonal firefighter in the early days, 1978, and years later as a California state bureaucrat at the executive level, putting out other types of "fires." Clare had her plate full with California's devistating fires during her tenure at the executive level.
As dangerous as being on the fire-line is, I think I'd rather be there than in front of ignorant elected officials at the state Capitol begging for vehicles and justifying your departments existance! UGGGHH!!
I blazed (pun intended) through Clare's amazing read from her start as a 17-year-old seasonal firefighter, to 2nd in command of CalFire and a law degree in between. In over 30 years and beyond, Clare kept pushing the envelope and breaking barriers, even in retirement.
For all the ladies in the world wanting to find inspiration in their careers and life choices, get this book and pass it along to all the young women in your life.
Well Done Chief Frank you freaking ROCK!
Jan Mendoza
FireGirl
June 24, 2023
I didn't like Clare or how she wrote her story. I didn't even like the chapter titles. There was something about this lady that rubbed me the wrong way. I will say it was nice to see her start at the bottom and work very hard to move up the ladder, you have to give her that much credit. In general, the book moved around too much in time to hold my interest as a cohesive story. I found it very hard to finish so it was much easier after about midpoint to skim my way to the end. Thank you to Goodreads for the free copy of the book read and review.
February 14, 2024
5/5 star for this really great read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing the ARC to me for review.
Chief Frank writes a great book detailing her multi-decade career as a professional firefighter in California. Her journey from seasonal worker to a chief of the department is filled with excitement, heartbreak, and history.
We get to see Chief Clare Frank work her way through the glass ceiling and pave the way for a new generation of a more open fire service - whether that is/was her point or not. In a profession that is largely uniform in who its employees are, she broke ground as a dedicated firefighter, engineer, captain, and chief.
Chief Franks book is filled with so much detail about her experience and she does a great job capturing the “rest of the job”. There are a few jobs/incidents mentioned throughout the book, but the real success of this come from her showing “everything else”. The news captures the calls, this peels the curtain back to the other hours of the day.
There
Thank you to NetGalley for providing the ARC to me for review.
Chief Frank writes a great book detailing her multi-decade career as a professional firefighter in California. Her journey from seasonal worker to a chief of the department is filled with excitement, heartbreak, and history.
We get to see Chief Clare Frank work her way through the glass ceiling and pave the way for a new generation of a more open fire service - whether that is/was her point or not. In a profession that is largely uniform in who its employees are, she broke ground as a dedicated firefighter, engineer, captain, and chief.
Chief Franks book is filled with so much detail about her experience and she does a great job capturing the “rest of the job”. There are a few jobs/incidents mentioned throughout the book, but the real success of this come from her showing “everything else”. The news captures the calls, this peels the curtain back to the other hours of the day.
There
November 22, 2022
Burnt is the autobiography from Clare Frank, and her story of ascent from a young 17-year old woman starting on the bottom ranks of firefighting, to one of its top posts as Chief of Fire Protection. Ever since seeing her first fire at a young age she was passionate about firefighting, and wanted to join the firefighting ranks that her brother had already embraced. At 17 she wasn’t even old enough to enlist—she left the spot for age blank and hoped no one would notice.
Clare chronicles both her amazing journey learning to fight fire and to meet the challenges of the field. She had to overcome difficult testing, made harder by equipment that was not sized for a female of her stature. In fact, in one challenge she was worried because the map books that she used to prop behind her back to reach the pedals were missing which would make it nearly impossible to beat the driving test. Even more challenging than the physical and strength tests were the tests to fit in with a stereotypical male-dominated field.
Not only did Clare move through the ranks, but she also led at a time when faced with unprecedented fires and scandals. However, here is a leader that instead of running for the hills, rolls up her sleeves and will not back down. Clare’s story of grit and love for firefighting will get under your skin and inspire.
Clare chronicles both her amazing journey learning to fight fire and to meet the challenges of the field. She had to overcome difficult testing, made harder by equipment that was not sized for a female of her stature. In fact, in one challenge she was worried because the map books that she used to prop behind her back to reach the pedals were missing which would make it nearly impossible to beat the driving test. Even more challenging than the physical and strength tests were the tests to fit in with a stereotypical male-dominated field.
Not only did Clare move through the ranks, but she also led at a time when faced with unprecedented fires and scandals. However, here is a leader that instead of running for the hills, rolls up her sleeves and will not back down. Clare’s story of grit and love for firefighting will get under your skin and inspire.
September 8, 2023
3.25/5
This had moments that I loved! Whenever she spoke about her family, her childhood, and her thoughts about worsening wildfire seasons -- I was hooked. Everything else was a bit too detailed for me with not as much substance. I would've gone through this a lot faster if it was a series of short stories versus a full-on chronological memoir. That being said, one of the main lessons about fire in this book pissed me off to no end. When it comes down to it, the solutions exist -- just like for climate change in general -- we're just not taking advantage of them. I don't think I expected to finish this book feeling hopeful, but I didn't expect to feel even more angry about the situation than I already do. At a certain point, rebuilding won't be an option -- the reburning will be happening too fast.
This had moments that I loved! Whenever she spoke about her family, her childhood, and her thoughts about worsening wildfire seasons -- I was hooked. Everything else was a bit too detailed for me with not as much substance. I would've gone through this a lot faster if it was a series of short stories versus a full-on chronological memoir. That being said, one of the main lessons about fire in this book pissed me off to no end. When it comes down to it, the solutions exist -- just like for climate change in general -- we're just not taking advantage of them. I don't think I expected to finish this book feeling hopeful, but I didn't expect to feel even more angry about the situation than I already do. At a certain point, rebuilding won't be an option -- the reburning will be happening too fast.
September 15, 2023
Frank writes with wry humor and clear passion for her trade in this memoir about her rise through the ranks of Cal Fire. If you ever wanted to know what life is like as a firefighter, this covers the front lines of wildfires, firehouse banter, and state policymaking and emergency management, with both loss and success at every stage of her career. The ending chapters which discussed the changing face of wildfires and how we respond had a different tone than the rest of the book and felt a little glossed over, but overall a fascinating read!
August 1, 2024
This book was everything a 23 year old woman looking to find her place in the world needed.
Clare’s words are tough, inspiring and never ceasing to amaze. I wish I found my niche as young as she had I only just figured what I wanted. Since reading this you best believe I am going to fight tooth and nail to make myself proud.
Thank you for writing the book I needed Clare.
Clare’s words are tough, inspiring and never ceasing to amaze. I wish I found my niche as young as she had I only just figured what I wanted. Since reading this you best believe I am going to fight tooth and nail to make myself proud.
Thank you for writing the book I needed Clare.
April 28, 2025
you'll laugh, you'll cry. Clare is hardworking, tough, human and a true hero for women who work in a man's world. Thank you Clare for writing this, publishing & sharing your story. You're a damn badass, Tiger.
August 19, 2023
Clare Frank is one cool lady. I loved reading about her time as a firefighter. I admire her dedication and toughness. I liked the first half of this book, when she was in the middle of all the firefighting action, more than the second half, when she was working in an administrative position. Her stories of of problem solving and hard work were delightful to read. I did have a few "okay, boomer" moments with some of her opinions, but overall a very enjoyable memoir.
September 22, 2023
I’m officially a fire nerd! I loved this!
June 19, 2024
Like... Girl... You're a badass, we know. But you don't have to try to prove it to us with 865 different stories. Really cool story. Very impressive but the ego is a bit hard to look past.
April 2, 2025
Amazing memoir, slow paced and interesting. California firefighters are badass - especially Clare
November 7, 2022
4.5⭐️ Sometimes I got lost between past and present but overall its a great book. I learned about a woman firefighter and her passion to run toward fire to stomp it in Western US. Thank you Netgalley for an advance copy!
July 25, 2025
wow. just wow
read by author.
such an amazing book written and narrated by
a strong, smart, funny, childfree woman.
- summary for future self:
"In California, anyone's fire is everyone's fire"
at 4, experienced her first wildfire in Southern California with her 5 siblings. she got curious with fire.
was asked to be the state chief of fire department 22 months before her retirement.
her dad taught her to do push ups after a car crash he was on, doing them with 6 kids on his back.
her older brother also was a firefighter. when she went through training, she couldn't find boots her size so got men's shoes which ended in blisters during a hike.
at 17 she passed the training along only 2 other guys but she had to be 18 to be employed. she convinced her parents to emancipate her. she kept her birth date blank on paperowork.
she knew that only her brother truly believed in her, while all the other bosses expected her to fail.
at the first job, she would take the bicycle for 15 miles or hitchhike.
her first capitan protected her against others after seeing how hard working she was.
she saw many cites if suicide and cases of depression (even of co-workers).
she used to train in Santa Cruz and live in San Jose. it feels so unusual to read about places I've been in for a while now.
sad case where 19 fire fighters where killed by a wild fire, the largest case in years.
she failed the physical test the first time so asked to retake it the second time on the same day. it mostly meant for tall people. and she passed.
was sent to San Mateo for work for a bit, it was a very "sleepy" fire house.
she realized that firefighting can break as much as it can fix someone.
in one of the trucks, when she drove to fast, the firetruck rolled over. it was not fully her fault but the trucks were later discounted.
she was afraid to drive fast but when she was called to come to a drowning 2 year old, she sped. he still died.
when she was 8, she knew she did not want to be a mother ever. told her religious mother.
had a capitan that went missing and his girlfriend was killed. damn...
everyone thought he killed her after paying her to not be a excort anymore and dissappeared. his face was everywhere over all the stations.
she had to leave one of the fires because the one-fit-all masks seal broke and she could not breathe. years later, the masks came in different sizes.
she saw a lot of sexism and homophobia but also a lot of improvement over the decades.
majority of wildfires where human made.
many car crashes calls were received every shift.
she's seen cases of detached retinas during a car crash so the victim would become blind.
even though she did not get a bachelor's, she was able to get into law school with her work experience and letters about her life. she only went to community colleges before then.
went to work while taking classes at night. quite tired.
she received a baby once.
got a surgery on toes and was told cannot wear fire fihets boots for 5 years. still went to college and worked in the office.
there were many negative comments online about her being a female firefighter in power.
the case about King's road fire at Lake Tahoe (omg I've been there many times. it's so interesting to hear about cases of places where I've been). there were so many fires that summer that they HAD to ask for firefighters from other states to come in. but unfortunately, they were often more slow and less understanding of the urgency of wildfires in dry California. the other chiefs from different states would require in-person meetings (seriously? damn it).
while in law school, started a relationship with someone she used to work with. dated when she finished the internship, both quite funny got married.
worked with criminal cases. she liked being a lawyer but felt alive when she chased and stopped fires.
so it's been 5 years and she asked for a check of her feet from her doctor.
she was cleared for work!
she immediately told Bud that even though he married her when she was a lawyer with 6 figures, but her salary will drop in half but she will be happier.
her husband was happy for her! (she lost 3 wedding rings).
she nailed the fire marshal interview.
had to tell the judges that she is quiting and they were happy for her, no judgement.
she was told she needs to apply to be a chief. so she applied for Milpitas Chief position.
when she got there, everyone was impressed to see a woman chief. the station was much better equipped & rich than any other she worked at. she had an admin. assistant there as well. she was extremely helpful and nice, and Clare was a great boss in return.
the fire marshal there was also a woman, doing
has a worker who got into an accident and all 4 limbs became paralyzed. she found him an office job, colleagues changed the
she believed in him. like someone believed in her earlier in her career.
a lot of spreadsheets and finances.
she then found a job that combines fire fighting & law: investigating who must pay for damages (hiker who started a fire or pge).
her commute went from 7 miles to 130 to Sacramento from Milpitas, so she lived in a rental during the work week. for 6 years at least.
got a puppy.
unfortunately, she had to attend many funerals of colleagues.
she also mentioned how many fires started due to negligent people. as well as how weather and nature changed and got worse over time, with fires bigger and scarier each day.
read by author.
such an amazing book written and narrated by
a strong, smart, funny, childfree woman.
- summary for future self:
"In California, anyone's fire is everyone's fire"
at 4, experienced her first wildfire in Southern California with her 5 siblings. she got curious with fire.
was asked to be the state chief of fire department 22 months before her retirement.
her dad taught her to do push ups after a car crash he was on, doing them with 6 kids on his back.
her older brother also was a firefighter. when she went through training, she couldn't find boots her size so got men's shoes which ended in blisters during a hike.
at 17 she passed the training along only 2 other guys but she had to be 18 to be employed. she convinced her parents to emancipate her. she kept her birth date blank on paperowork.
she knew that only her brother truly believed in her, while all the other bosses expected her to fail.
at the first job, she would take the bicycle for 15 miles or hitchhike.
her first capitan protected her against others after seeing how hard working she was.
she saw many cites if suicide and cases of depression (even of co-workers).
she used to train in Santa Cruz and live in San Jose. it feels so unusual to read about places I've been in for a while now.
sad case where 19 fire fighters where killed by a wild fire, the largest case in years.
she failed the physical test the first time so asked to retake it the second time on the same day. it mostly meant for tall people. and she passed.
was sent to San Mateo for work for a bit, it was a very "sleepy" fire house.
she realized that firefighting can break as much as it can fix someone.
in one of the trucks, when she drove to fast, the firetruck rolled over. it was not fully her fault but the trucks were later discounted.
she was afraid to drive fast but when she was called to come to a drowning 2 year old, she sped. he still died.
when she was 8, she knew she did not want to be a mother ever. told her religious mother.
had a capitan that went missing and his girlfriend was killed. damn...
everyone thought he killed her after paying her to not be a excort anymore and dissappeared. his face was everywhere over all the stations.
she had to leave one of the fires because the one-fit-all masks seal broke and she could not breathe. years later, the masks came in different sizes.
she saw a lot of sexism and homophobia but also a lot of improvement over the decades.
majority of wildfires where human made.
many car crashes calls were received every shift.
she's seen cases of detached retinas during a car crash so the victim would become blind.
even though she did not get a bachelor's, she was able to get into law school with her work experience and letters about her life. she only went to community colleges before then.
went to work while taking classes at night. quite tired.
she received a baby once.
got a surgery on toes and was told cannot wear fire fihets boots for 5 years. still went to college and worked in the office.
there were many negative comments online about her being a female firefighter in power.
the case about King's road fire at Lake Tahoe (omg I've been there many times. it's so interesting to hear about cases of places where I've been). there were so many fires that summer that they HAD to ask for firefighters from other states to come in. but unfortunately, they were often more slow and less understanding of the urgency of wildfires in dry California. the other chiefs from different states would require in-person meetings (seriously? damn it).
while in law school, started a relationship with someone she used to work with. dated when she finished the internship, both quite funny got married.
worked with criminal cases. she liked being a lawyer but felt alive when she chased and stopped fires.
so it's been 5 years and she asked for a check of her feet from her doctor.
she was cleared for work!
she immediately told Bud that even though he married her when she was a lawyer with 6 figures, but her salary will drop in half but she will be happier.
her husband was happy for her! (she lost 3 wedding rings).
she nailed the fire marshal interview.
had to tell the judges that she is quiting and they were happy for her, no judgement.
she was told she needs to apply to be a chief. so she applied for Milpitas Chief position.
when she got there, everyone was impressed to see a woman chief. the station was much better equipped & rich than any other she worked at. she had an admin. assistant there as well. she was extremely helpful and nice, and Clare was a great boss in return.
the fire marshal there was also a woman, doing
has a worker who got into an accident and all 4 limbs became paralyzed. she found him an office job, colleagues changed the
she believed in him. like someone believed in her earlier in her career.
a lot of spreadsheets and finances.
she then found a job that combines fire fighting & law: investigating who must pay for damages (hiker who started a fire or pge).
her commute went from 7 miles to 130 to Sacramento from Milpitas, so she lived in a rental during the work week. for 6 years at least.
got a puppy.
unfortunately, she had to attend many funerals of colleagues.
she also mentioned how many fires started due to negligent people. as well as how weather and nature changed and got worse over time, with fires bigger and scarier each day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2024
I loved this book. A story of Clare Frank's firefighting career from the time she was 17 to her retirement from one of the highest position in California's fire system decades later, she sucks you in equally to both the high action of a firefight itself and the daily life of a firefighter learning and cherishing her craft.
Frank makes no secret of the mistakes she made - and how she took responsibility and learned from every screw up. Her book shows what is possible and how high you can rise if you put the work into something you love and keep challenging yourself, accepting when things get hard.
What I appreciated most about Frank's writing was the subtly. Without once pontificating, she shows the sexism she faced as a female firefighter right up until the end of her career. Just a few pages here and there effectively communicate the chaos that was her home life growing up and how it drove her to where she is today. A single monologue (made during an investigation against Frank because someone refused to report to a woman and claimed she was prejudiced against HIM!) reveals how well-traveled Frank is and how much she values understanding other religions. Too many memoirs belabor, blow by blow, every detail about their lives in an effort to show growth; Frank places details powerfully and effectively in a way that provides color without ever distracting from the main thread.
Frank only hints at the larger causes and politics of fire - the book is her memoir, not a policy solution - but she ends with this reflection:
Recommended if you're interested in: Fire, workforce development, human-dog relationships, well-edited memoirs
Frank makes no secret of the mistakes she made - and how she took responsibility and learned from every screw up. Her book shows what is possible and how high you can rise if you put the work into something you love and keep challenging yourself, accepting when things get hard.
What I appreciated most about Frank's writing was the subtly. Without once pontificating, she shows the sexism she faced as a female firefighter right up until the end of her career. Just a few pages here and there effectively communicate the chaos that was her home life growing up and how it drove her to where she is today. A single monologue (made during an investigation against Frank because someone refused to report to a woman and claimed she was prejudiced against HIM!) reveals how well-traveled Frank is and how much she values understanding other religions. Too many memoirs belabor, blow by blow, every detail about their lives in an effort to show growth; Frank places details powerfully and effectively in a way that provides color without ever distracting from the main thread.
Frank only hints at the larger causes and politics of fire - the book is her memoir, not a policy solution - but she ends with this reflection:
I'd say there's a way out if we choose it. Like with most issues these days, if we could set aside red and blue views, we could find the resolve to act. We could thin fuel (both mechanically and with prescribed fire), harden homes, restructure budget priorities, and reduce ignitions. These aren't new ideas. But we can't get traction because "Wah, it's too hard."
People don't like prescribed burns because they put smoke in the air. They don't want ground clearing because it disturbs habitats. They hate being told how to build their homes in the wildland-urban interface. Politicians and budget wonks don't want their agendas stifled. And for the love of God, don't even try forcing people to have regard for the fire triangle. It's so romantic to set flying lanterns a-sail above an autumn wedding. Dude, that dirt bike will have more power if you remove the spark arrestor! We can't possibly afford to clear all the around all the power lines we constructed; it would cut into our profits. No time to tighten those dragging trailer chains - the road awaits. That campfire looks like it's out. And my personal favorite: We can't ban fireworks in the middle of the summer; it helps fund scouts.
I thought back to the saying I'd heard about anyone's fire being everyone's fire in California. But it's become bigger than that. Now, anyone's fire is everyone's fire in the West and beyond. If we want our future generations to know what a forest is, if we want breathable air and fatality reduction, we need to stop pretending fire is an unpredictable disaster. (Claire Frank, Burnt)
Recommended if you're interested in: Fire, workforce development, human-dog relationships, well-edited memoirs
Read
October 16, 2023Whenever you hear a fire truck roar past your house, you realize those on board have the task of facing a raging fire, and a possible life or death situation. Thankfully they have been well-trained, and the cases of firefighters losing their life or being severely injured is not high.
Clare Frank’s book BURNT A MEMOIR OF FIRE FIGHTING, looks at the world of fire fighting through a female perspective, and what she faced during her training and while in the line of duty. There were firefighters in her family, which was all the more reason for her personally to keep up that tradition.
Clare says she met her first fire at the age of only four. It was known as the Weldon Fire in the neighbourhood of Granada Falls. She says her parents did not panic, as her parents and five fellow siblings stood with Clare in their backyard. It was a mile from their house thankfully, and in retrospect the author says that perhaps it helprf spark her interest in fire.
She was only five foot two as she trained to be a firefighter, and the heavy gear that while definitely intimidating, did not deter her from her mission or passion to be successful. She was seventeen at the time, and although technically too young for the job, she left a blank space on the application, hoping no one would question it. It seemed no one did.
Although there were men all around her, she was even more determined to succeed, to achieve her life’s dream. No one cut her any slack at all because she was a woman, but she had things to prove to herself and those men watching her. She faced every hurdle and obstacle, even a ladder climb that definitely was jaw-dropping to the men present.
Failing was never in her vocabulary, and once she passed all tests, she became a full-fledged firefighter, ready to face whatever was in her way. There were times when she had little sleep, working five days straight, always ready if the fire bell rang. There were countless fires that were on her radar, some caused by lightning, fires caused by cigarettes and smoldering campfires that ignited the forest around it. She saw marijuana fields ablaze and meth labs as well that were risky, but through it all Clare excelled in so many ways.
She advanced from firefighter to captain, and chief, an illustrious career. At one point she was severely injured, causing her to take time off work. During her absence from duty she studied for a law degree, taking on the corporate world briefly, before back on active duty.
She notes that the National Fire Protection Association says there are 15,000 women serving as career firefighters, which is only four percent of the national total. Her book is most fascinating from her perspective, a memoir with no regrets, only positives that she has experienced during that career. It is a blazing tribute to the profession.
Clare Frank’s book BURNT A MEMOIR OF FIRE FIGHTING, looks at the world of fire fighting through a female perspective, and what she faced during her training and while in the line of duty. There were firefighters in her family, which was all the more reason for her personally to keep up that tradition.
Clare says she met her first fire at the age of only four. It was known as the Weldon Fire in the neighbourhood of Granada Falls. She says her parents did not panic, as her parents and five fellow siblings stood with Clare in their backyard. It was a mile from their house thankfully, and in retrospect the author says that perhaps it helprf spark her interest in fire.
She was only five foot two as she trained to be a firefighter, and the heavy gear that while definitely intimidating, did not deter her from her mission or passion to be successful. She was seventeen at the time, and although technically too young for the job, she left a blank space on the application, hoping no one would question it. It seemed no one did.
Although there were men all around her, she was even more determined to succeed, to achieve her life’s dream. No one cut her any slack at all because she was a woman, but she had things to prove to herself and those men watching her. She faced every hurdle and obstacle, even a ladder climb that definitely was jaw-dropping to the men present.
Failing was never in her vocabulary, and once she passed all tests, she became a full-fledged firefighter, ready to face whatever was in her way. There were times when she had little sleep, working five days straight, always ready if the fire bell rang. There were countless fires that were on her radar, some caused by lightning, fires caused by cigarettes and smoldering campfires that ignited the forest around it. She saw marijuana fields ablaze and meth labs as well that were risky, but through it all Clare excelled in so many ways.
She advanced from firefighter to captain, and chief, an illustrious career. At one point she was severely injured, causing her to take time off work. During her absence from duty she studied for a law degree, taking on the corporate world briefly, before back on active duty.
She notes that the National Fire Protection Association says there are 15,000 women serving as career firefighters, which is only four percent of the national total. Her book is most fascinating from her perspective, a memoir with no regrets, only positives that she has experienced during that career. It is a blazing tribute to the profession.
July 12, 2023
Firefighters are often compared to warriors, and a Chief holds the highest rank within their ranks. In Clare Frank's captivating memoir, "Burnt," she unveils the extraordinary journey of the first female Chief of Fire Protection at Cal Fire (like a COO or 3-star general)—a title earned through unwavering tenacity, courage, charisma, and erudition. (note: minor spoilers below)
In this eye-opening narrative, Frank reveals her competitive spirit and displays a master storyteller's gift, offering readers a highly entertaining and enlightening perspective on her illustrious career within the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, known as Cal Fire—one of the largest firefighting agencies in the United States.
Unyielding to tough bosses and arrogant bureaucrats, Clare Frank fearlessly navigates the challenges she encounters throughout her three-decade tenure at Cal Fire (interrupted only by injury, law school, and a stint as a metro fire chief). Whether facing treacherous fire lines, combating misogynistic attitudes within the station house, or persuading skeptical budget committees to allocate vital resources, her resilience remains unwavering. Standing at a mere 5'2" tall, she proves that stature is just another obstacle to overcome when confronting the toughest of adversaries or situations.
As readers delve into "Burnt," they will witness Frank's audacious entry into the profession as a seasonal firefighter at the age of 17 (leaving the "birthdate" blank on her application)—an event that set the stage for her remarkable journey. Along the way, she encounters influential personalities who leave an indelible mark on her life. Additionally, readers gain unprecedented insight into major news events tied to wildfires, allowing them to recall the collective memories shared by many Californians. Through these experiences, a newfound respect for the arduous physical and mental demands of firefighting emerges—one that extends beyond the headlines of prominent fires.
"Burnt" is an exceptional testament to the dedication and sacrifice of firefighters, particularly those who are underrepresented in the field. Clare Frank's memoir encapsulates the triumphs and challenges of her career, painting a vivid portrait of a trailblazing woman in a male-dominated profession. With her engaging storytelling and unyielding spirit, Frank ensures that readers are captivated from start to finish, shedding light on a world that is both thrilling and demanding.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the pages of "Burnt" and discover the captivating story of an indomitable yet charismatic and witty woman who defied the odds and emerged as an inspiring figure in the firefighting community.
In this eye-opening narrative, Frank reveals her competitive spirit and displays a master storyteller's gift, offering readers a highly entertaining and enlightening perspective on her illustrious career within the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, known as Cal Fire—one of the largest firefighting agencies in the United States.
Unyielding to tough bosses and arrogant bureaucrats, Clare Frank fearlessly navigates the challenges she encounters throughout her three-decade tenure at Cal Fire (interrupted only by injury, law school, and a stint as a metro fire chief). Whether facing treacherous fire lines, combating misogynistic attitudes within the station house, or persuading skeptical budget committees to allocate vital resources, her resilience remains unwavering. Standing at a mere 5'2" tall, she proves that stature is just another obstacle to overcome when confronting the toughest of adversaries or situations.
As readers delve into "Burnt," they will witness Frank's audacious entry into the profession as a seasonal firefighter at the age of 17 (leaving the "birthdate" blank on her application)—an event that set the stage for her remarkable journey. Along the way, she encounters influential personalities who leave an indelible mark on her life. Additionally, readers gain unprecedented insight into major news events tied to wildfires, allowing them to recall the collective memories shared by many Californians. Through these experiences, a newfound respect for the arduous physical and mental demands of firefighting emerges—one that extends beyond the headlines of prominent fires.
"Burnt" is an exceptional testament to the dedication and sacrifice of firefighters, particularly those who are underrepresented in the field. Clare Frank's memoir encapsulates the triumphs and challenges of her career, painting a vivid portrait of a trailblazing woman in a male-dominated profession. With her engaging storytelling and unyielding spirit, Frank ensures that readers are captivated from start to finish, shedding light on a world that is both thrilling and demanding.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the pages of "Burnt" and discover the captivating story of an indomitable yet charismatic and witty woman who defied the odds and emerged as an inspiring figure in the firefighting community.
January 19, 2025
This is really a very good read, or in my case a listen. I remember when Clare was assigned as the first woman firefighter to the Pescadero station. I was with the sheriff’s office and her assignment was somewhat big news at the time. Law Enforcement was more progressive than the fire service when it came to introduction of women into the general ranks. The question we all had was whether or not a woman could handle the physical demands of fire fighting. So of course, all the old time deputies questioned their old fire buddies at the station about her abilities. Her reputation was that she was one tough gal who pulled her own weight. She also was described as being “smart as a tack,” who didn’t take crap from anyone.
So, what is about this book deserves a four star rating, especially by an old curmudgeon, who only writes reviews for books that he wants people to not waste their money on.
Clare has had an interesting life. I though this book would be about fighting California wild fires, or maybe, the struggle of a pioneer female making her way in the male dominated traditional fire service. Her story addresses both, but importantly she demonstrates that a person in this country can be successful through hard work, intelligence and perseverance.
Her early life was both interesting and challenging. Who the hell emancipates themselves at 16, and then lies about their age to join the largest fire department in the world, and then ends her career as second in command of the department? Along the way she applied for, and was accepted, to the Santa Clara University Law School. Well, she’s smart, so why wouldn’t she go to law school, except usually you go to college first. They let her in without the benefit of a B.A.. An amazing accomplishment in its own right
If I had a kid, this is the type of book that I would want them to read. The message here is you can go anywhere and do anything in life if you set your goal and work to prepare yourself.
I want her to write another book telling us about her experiences fighting these giant fires. If she does, it will be a great one.
I bought the print version of the book, but, due to failing eyesight, I didn’t enjoy the experience. I continued to check to see if the Kindle version was out, and then to my absolute delight I found the the audio version had been released with the author as the narrator. It was an absolute delight to listen to her narration. You had the feeling that she was sitting in the car talking to your about her interesting life.
So, what is about this book deserves a four star rating, especially by an old curmudgeon, who only writes reviews for books that he wants people to not waste their money on.
Clare has had an interesting life. I though this book would be about fighting California wild fires, or maybe, the struggle of a pioneer female making her way in the male dominated traditional fire service. Her story addresses both, but importantly she demonstrates that a person in this country can be successful through hard work, intelligence and perseverance.
Her early life was both interesting and challenging. Who the hell emancipates themselves at 16, and then lies about their age to join the largest fire department in the world, and then ends her career as second in command of the department? Along the way she applied for, and was accepted, to the Santa Clara University Law School. Well, she’s smart, so why wouldn’t she go to law school, except usually you go to college first. They let her in without the benefit of a B.A.. An amazing accomplishment in its own right
If I had a kid, this is the type of book that I would want them to read. The message here is you can go anywhere and do anything in life if you set your goal and work to prepare yourself.
I want her to write another book telling us about her experiences fighting these giant fires. If she does, it will be a great one.
I bought the print version of the book, but, due to failing eyesight, I didn’t enjoy the experience. I continued to check to see if the Kindle version was out, and then to my absolute delight I found the the audio version had been released with the author as the narrator. It was an absolute delight to listen to her narration. You had the feeling that she was sitting in the car talking to your about her interesting life.
July 4, 2023
All my reviews can be found at: http://www.jessicasreadingroom.com
This review will appear on my site on July 14, 2023.
~~~~
In a very male dominated field, the average person doesn’t see many female fire fighters, but Clare Frank is one of those few. Through her memoir we see her go through training and a seasonal fire fighter all the way up to retirement, which gives a 30+ year career span with her becoming second in command of Cal Fire. Also… she got a law degree too!!
Frank is a woman who could do anything it seems. Starting as an underage seasonal fire fighter (She left her birthday off her job application and was lucky enough for that to not be noticed) she always wanted to be a fire fighter, and even worked with her firefighter brother at times. She constantly pushed the envelope and broke down barriers when it didn’t seem possible.
We see how different she was treated as a female, but put a stop to that, making her peers see her who she was: A fire fighter, regardless of her gender. She kept up with the boys and proved herself many times over. We see her overcome obstacles, some which could have been career ending, but she didn’t let it be. She is one tough bad ass as she could really do her job!
During the course of her career we experience Frank’s rise through the ranks while doing a tough job and excelling. We see the highs and lows of her career and just when you think fire can’t get tougher... It does! Fire is brutal and we see it first hand as everyone is affected in various ways. And Frank lived in California which deals with extreme fires yearly.
Bravo to Frank for a well-done career and showing others, especially females, that if you want to do it, you can and will accomplish what you set your goals to be.
Many thanks to the publisher for granting me an arc to read and review in my own time.
This review will appear on my site on July 14, 2023.
~~~~
In a very male dominated field, the average person doesn’t see many female fire fighters, but Clare Frank is one of those few. Through her memoir we see her go through training and a seasonal fire fighter all the way up to retirement, which gives a 30+ year career span with her becoming second in command of Cal Fire. Also… she got a law degree too!!
Frank is a woman who could do anything it seems. Starting as an underage seasonal fire fighter (She left her birthday off her job application and was lucky enough for that to not be noticed) she always wanted to be a fire fighter, and even worked with her firefighter brother at times. She constantly pushed the envelope and broke down barriers when it didn’t seem possible.
We see how different she was treated as a female, but put a stop to that, making her peers see her who she was: A fire fighter, regardless of her gender. She kept up with the boys and proved herself many times over. We see her overcome obstacles, some which could have been career ending, but she didn’t let it be. She is one tough bad ass as she could really do her job!
During the course of her career we experience Frank’s rise through the ranks while doing a tough job and excelling. We see the highs and lows of her career and just when you think fire can’t get tougher... It does! Fire is brutal and we see it first hand as everyone is affected in various ways. And Frank lived in California which deals with extreme fires yearly.
Bravo to Frank for a well-done career and showing others, especially females, that if you want to do it, you can and will accomplish what you set your goals to be.
Many thanks to the publisher for granting me an arc to read and review in my own time.
November 15, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2023
I love reading memoirs, particularly about people who have overcome personal and professional challenges. Initially I was drawn to this book because I was interested in learning how the author had achieved success in a profession that was dominated by males. I wanted to learn how someone who began her career as a seasonal wildland firefighter could end up being part of the top command of a massive state agency - surely this was a woman who possessed intelligence, grit and determination. I found the story to be entertaining and captivating. I read it in one sitting!
Ms. Frank developed resilience and a sense of purpose during her formative years that provided her with the fortitude to strike out on her own while still a teenager and to pursue her dream of becoming a firefighter. Along the way, she encountered many roadblocks, but was able to continue to move forward in her career. She had to deal with naysayers, figure out workarounds in order to be able to operate equipment not made for someone of her small stature, and had to work as a team builder and team player even when some coworkers didn’t want that to happen. Along the way, she also managed to go to college and law school, pass the bar exam, and recover from injuries that would have been career ending for most people. I got exhausted just reading about her accomplishments!
I found this book to be fascinating, inspiring, and educational. I can’t wait to read her next book!
I love reading memoirs, particularly about people who have overcome personal and professional challenges. Initially I was drawn to this book because I was interested in learning how the author had achieved success in a profession that was dominated by males. I wanted to learn how someone who began her career as a seasonal wildland firefighter could end up being part of the top command of a massive state agency - surely this was a woman who possessed intelligence, grit and determination. I found the story to be entertaining and captivating. I read it in one sitting!
Ms. Frank developed resilience and a sense of purpose during her formative years that provided her with the fortitude to strike out on her own while still a teenager and to pursue her dream of becoming a firefighter. Along the way, she encountered many roadblocks, but was able to continue to move forward in her career. She had to deal with naysayers, figure out workarounds in order to be able to operate equipment not made for someone of her small stature, and had to work as a team builder and team player even when some coworkers didn’t want that to happen. Along the way, she also managed to go to college and law school, pass the bar exam, and recover from injuries that would have been career ending for most people. I got exhausted just reading about her accomplishments!
I found this book to be fascinating, inspiring, and educational. I can’t wait to read her next book!
March 16, 2023
This book is an excellent view into the real world of the fire service. For many people the essence of firefighting is the racing firetrucks with lights and sirens, firefighters jumping off the truck, pulling out the hoses and putting out the fire. They do not understand the preplanning, continual training, hard work and dedication that goes into being a firefighter.
Clare takes the reader deep into the world of firefighting. She gives you an insight to all the training and education that a firefighter must go through to perform their job - their lives and others depend on that knowledge. She shows you the physical and emotional hardships that they face. The wear and tear on their bodies as they strive to serve without thinking of themselves. The emotional stress from the things they see, calls they can't forget, but they continue on because of their love for their career and community. She reveals that there are female firefighters like herself and many others who love their profession and have always wanted to be a "firefighter".
Whether you are an old "smoke-eater" like me or just someone who truly wants to know about the true world of the fire service I think you will find this book a great read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy for my review.
Clare takes the reader deep into the world of firefighting. She gives you an insight to all the training and education that a firefighter must go through to perform their job - their lives and others depend on that knowledge. She shows you the physical and emotional hardships that they face. The wear and tear on their bodies as they strive to serve without thinking of themselves. The emotional stress from the things they see, calls they can't forget, but they continue on because of their love for their career and community. She reveals that there are female firefighters like herself and many others who love their profession and have always wanted to be a "firefighter".
Whether you are an old "smoke-eater" like me or just someone who truly wants to know about the true world of the fire service I think you will find this book a great read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy for my review.
March 22, 2023
I found this memoir to be a page turner to the very end. Unlike most memoirs I have read, this one was very captivating. This begins with a 17 year old girl who knows what she intends to do knowing most girls don’t make it through. She begins in the same training facility that her older brother started,. He was able to guide her in the beginning to work under certain Fire Chiefs ones he knows can best to mentor her show her the ropes. Training proved she was a real go getter, She showed no fear and attacked the set fires as instructed earning her the top spot and eligible to pick her fire station. A story of a woman working her way up the ranks with her tenacity. She knew how best to attack a fire. Clare Frank definitely knows how to do a very dangerous job well. I learned so much about the sacrifice they endure. Yes I would definitely recommend, especially to those who live in California and intimately understand the devastation wildfires can cause.. she tells how wildfires tend to move.ll needs to be in libraries throughout California schools and home libraries. Special thanks to the following for allowing2023 me to review early. I have given my honest review.
#NetGalley
#AcornPress
#ClareFrank
#Burnt
Publication Date: May 23, 2023
#NetGalley
#AcornPress
#ClareFrank
#Burnt
Publication Date: May 23, 2023
May 29, 2024
BURNT is a wonderful memoir, and so well-written that it's hard to believe this is the author's first book. But, then again, given her already considerable accomplishments as one of the highest ranking fire officers in California as well as earning a law degree, and now, in retirement turning her focus to creative writing, I suppose it's not surprising.
Clare was the first and only woman so far to become the Chief of fire protection for CalFire, the state of California's main fire fighting agency. She's a 5’2″ force of nature who apparently finds challenges to be just a way to make her even more determined to overcome them. The book was engaging, there are lots of fascinating details about fire fighting (and its inherent dangers and loss of life) without being too in the weeds and her own personal story is pretty compelling. She does gloss over the struggles that I’m sure she and other trailblazers have had to face in the profession but I think it’s just her nature to minimize the difficulties I’m sure she faced. As residents of the SF Bay Area just going into the summer fire season, my bookclub picked this book for the local interest angle, and I'm so glad we did as I probably wouldn't have heard of it otherwise.
Clare was the first and only woman so far to become the Chief of fire protection for CalFire, the state of California's main fire fighting agency. She's a 5’2″ force of nature who apparently finds challenges to be just a way to make her even more determined to overcome them. The book was engaging, there are lots of fascinating details about fire fighting (and its inherent dangers and loss of life) without being too in the weeds and her own personal story is pretty compelling. She does gloss over the struggles that I’m sure she and other trailblazers have had to face in the profession but I think it’s just her nature to minimize the difficulties I’m sure she faced. As residents of the SF Bay Area just going into the summer fire season, my bookclub picked this book for the local interest angle, and I'm so glad we did as I probably wouldn't have heard of it otherwise.
June 25, 2023
This is an excellent memoir and look behind the scenes at not only firefighting, but at how Frank thrived in a male dominated profession and dealt with the sexism and other issues associated with that. For the most part, the book flows well and it is easy to follow what is happening. Frank explains firefighting in enough detail for laypeople (of which I am one) to understand what is happening and the significance of it, but her explanations never feel burdensome.
The nonlinearity of the story mucks things up a bit though. Each part of the book starts with a short vignette from her childhood followed by a chapter from her last job at HQ. For the most part, these chapters didn't relate to the rest of the chapters in each section. Within the other chapters too, there are occasional flashbacks and it can be tricky to track where, when, and especially who. There are a lot of names and I had lots of trouble remembering who all those people were. A listing of years, stations and key personnel at each in the back of the book would have been very helpful.
Overall, this is definitely a worthwhile read for anyone interested in firefighting or an inspiring female role model.
The nonlinearity of the story mucks things up a bit though. Each part of the book starts with a short vignette from her childhood followed by a chapter from her last job at HQ. For the most part, these chapters didn't relate to the rest of the chapters in each section. Within the other chapters too, there are occasional flashbacks and it can be tricky to track where, when, and especially who. There are a lot of names and I had lots of trouble remembering who all those people were. A listing of years, stations and key personnel at each in the back of the book would have been very helpful.
Overall, this is definitely a worthwhile read for anyone interested in firefighting or an inspiring female role model.
July 28, 2023
Pioneer Firefighter
This is the autobiography of Clare Frank, one of the first female Firefighters employed by CalFire and the first to promote to Chief…in CalFire and of a medium sized municipal fire department.
A few things set this book apart.
First, Frank was truly a trailblazer. This is not a political screed. But her story is inspiring.
Next…CalFire. CalFire is an interesting organization. In addition to controlling wildfires,it is also a full service fire department. Frank had a variety of career assignments that exposed her to many types of firefighting challenges. The book is not written in chronological order. The reader moves through her firefighting career but also focuses on her final two years as Chief of Operations. We experience fighting a wildfire and later directing a state level response to disasters.
Finally, Frank is just a very good writer. In this genre, that makes a huge difference. The reader gets to know her. And she’s quite likable.
For all of those reasons, a five star rating and an unequivocal recommendation.
This is the autobiography of Clare Frank, one of the first female Firefighters employed by CalFire and the first to promote to Chief…in CalFire and of a medium sized municipal fire department.
A few things set this book apart.
First, Frank was truly a trailblazer. This is not a political screed. But her story is inspiring.
Next…CalFire. CalFire is an interesting organization. In addition to controlling wildfires,it is also a full service fire department. Frank had a variety of career assignments that exposed her to many types of firefighting challenges. The book is not written in chronological order. The reader moves through her firefighting career but also focuses on her final two years as Chief of Operations. We experience fighting a wildfire and later directing a state level response to disasters.
Finally, Frank is just a very good writer. In this genre, that makes a huge difference. The reader gets to know her. And she’s quite likable.
For all of those reasons, a five star rating and an unequivocal recommendation.
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