About Dances with Fire:

The challenging world of wildland firefighting is brought to life in Dances with Fire, a powerful new memoir released this summer. The captivating narrative takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the intense challenges, camaraderie, and personal transformations experienced on the front lines of some of the most dangerous fires in history.

In Dances with Fire, Hamberger, a wildland firefighter with years of experience battling blazes across the West, shares her gripping personal story. With an unflinching eye, she delves into the physical and mental demands of the job, the complex dynamics within firefighting crews, and the profound impact that this high-stakes profession has on those who risk their lives to protect our national forests and wildlands.

“I wrote Dances with Fire to give people insight into what it’s like on the fireline,” says Hamberger. “It’s more than just a job; it tests you in every possible way. I wanted to share the stories, both the triumphs and the tragedies, to honor those who have dedicated their lives to this work.”

The memoir offers vivid accounts of the eerie beauty of fire in the wilderness, and the emotional toll of witnessing nature’s fury. But it’s also deeply personal, revealing how Hamberger navigated the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, and how the experience shaped her identity and worldview.

Dances with Fire is not just a memoir for those interested in firefighting; it’s a compelling read for anyone drawn to stories of resilience, courage, and the human spirit. Hamberger’s narrative is both a tribute to her fellow firefighters and a call to action, raising awareness about the growing threat of wildfires reaching our communities and the need for greater support for those who fight them

Author bio:

Kate Hamberger was a wildland firefighter on several hotshot crews and a helicopter crew on the front lines of some of the most significant wildfires in history while working her way through college. She enjoys being outside and resides in Silverton, Oregon.