Awards
New York
Public Library Best Books for the Teenage
SPUR Award
for Best Juvenile Fiction about the American West
Notable
Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
Bank Street
College List Best Children’s Books
Reviews
VOYA (Voice
of Youth Advocates)
"A
compelling historical novel…both gripping and poignant...fast paced and peopled
with vivid, believable characters."
Idaho State
Journal
“Exciting,
riveting Idaho history - that’s what you’ll find in Fire in the Hole!....The
novel tells the story of the violent clash between union and "scab"
silver miners in northern Idaho a century ago; the appeal is strong for readers
of all ages. This book definitely is one of those can't-put-it-down reads, well
written, fast paced and highly informative, to boot.
Booklist
Gr. 5-8. “Based on actual events, Farrell's first novel fairly brims with
details and mining history. Farrell's characters and their motivations ring
true, and the ending leaves hope that things will improve not only for Mick but
for everyone. A good choice for historical fiction buffs and readers studying
the mining industry and labor unions.”
Kirkus
Review
“Farrell's
debut follows Mick as he works the mine, engineers a rescue of his father, and
finds his own path in life. Fictional newspaper articles by Mick's mentor Mr.
Delaney and a good author's note contribute historical and legal context for
this story of family, dreams, and an important segment of American history.
(Fiction. 10-14)
