The Laughing Wolf

Book Review: Firework

First up, a disclaimer in the interest of fairness: the author of this book is my cousin. Keep that in mind as you read. Firework discusses how Stuart D. Kent became a firefighter, and how he was moved to share his experiences with the world.

It is a very honest book in terms of self-revelation, and it offers an insight into how one person became a firefighter. The book touches on many things, but focuses on the author’s journey in life and his faith, and how his faith brought him to this calling. He makes no bones about the fact that he speaks only for himself, but it also offers a fascinating glimpse into the mentality – and courage – it takes for people to rush into disaster, instead of away from it.

A literary great it is not, though there are echoes of Report from Engine Company 82 in it, a book I much loved as a youth. What it is, is the start of something larger and greater, that Stuart must now write and finish. But, it is a start that is well worth the read. It moved me on several levels, and gave me pride in what he has done and is doing. Sometimes we miss that with the people with whom we share childhood, and I am glad for the opportunity. Good Job, Stuart.

-30-