On the Burning Edge: A Fateful Fire and the Men Who Fought It

What is it about this story that has such a strong gravitational pull? I never met any of the Granite Mountain Hotshots (GMH), and yet, I almost feel a sense of personal loss regarding their tragic deaths.This book is bit novel-like in some ways, which I do not particularly care for. I prefer a "just the facts" type of approach to my non-fiction. Also, some readers have questioned a few of the details and fact checking. I cannot comment on that.However, that all being said, I found it to be a very informative and enjoyable read. I feel the author fills in some of the history and background on the GMH - and wildland firefighting in general - that the other books I have read on this subject have not. I learned some things here that I had not read about elsewhere. That really helped me understand the culture and mentality of the GMH; why they may have made the decisions they made that resulted in the greatest one-day loss of firefighters since 9/11. As interested parties have asked time and time again, how could this have happened to such a well-trained and disciplined group as Granite Mountain? It simply boggles the mind.There is something about this story; an "it factor" that is, in a word, mesmerizing. At the risk of sounding too philosophical, I feel the GMH were more than just a bunch of guys fighting fires. They were emblematic of a code of honor and conduct, a brotherhood of sorts, and were an inspiring example of what a dedicated team of men could become and accomplish. In the field doing what they did best they modeled so many good qualities, and it is almost as if a little bit of all of us died on that hill with them.Like so many first responders and soldiers before them, they passed way too young and in a totally avoidable manner, which makes their loss that much harder to come to terms with.May their memory and sacrifice live on.

Great book for those who aren’t firemen but have an interest in their endeavors. This book broke down exactly what happened and why they didn’t quite make it. Not only are these guys tough, they are very brave too. I learned so more many things from this book vs. the other books and articles I read. The writer puts the reader right smack dab in the middle of the action which allows the readers to feel the determination and subsequently the fear that the Shots went through. As good or better than most books that I’ve read about fireman and mountain climbers in the Himalayas. Well done Sir! You did the boys proud.

An excellent story of the 19 heroes who perished on June 30 2013 in the Yarnell Hill (AZ) wildfire. The personal stories of each firefighter were well-developed and the description of the dangers and tactics of wild land firefighting was superb. Anyone living in western states would be advised to understand the dangers of the wild land fire season and the measures that can and should be taken to protect lives and property. As an increasing number of homes are being built in close proximity to drought-stricken vegetation, this danger will only increase in coming years.

It is hard to write about this book, because we all know the end. Along the way the men who made up the Granite Mountain Hotshots, and many of their families, become real to us, making the inevitable end all the more difficult. I know nothing about wildland firefighting, so I cannot posit any conjectures as to the rightness of the decision making processes of the agencies and individuals involved, as those with knowledge, and those without, certainly will do. I did develop empathy for the people involved, and gained some insight into how dangerous fighting these fires are, both to the firefighters and to the communities threatened by the fires.

I found ‘this book an excellent source in my attempt to better understanding of this extremely tragic and horrific accident. It is very well written and introduces one to each of these heroic young men and their personal as well as professional lives. Anyone who has studied the events leading up to this very sad tragedy will find this book a worthwhile read.

I think anyone who appreciates the outdoors or has any concern whatsoever for our environment should read this book. It's a great tale of bravery and heroism, and sheds some light on a topic not many people probably think about, woodland firefighting. It kept my attention the whole way through and made for a quick read. If you like the movie "Only the Brave" you will love this book.

Detailed account of the Yarnell Hill fire and the tragic wildfire deaths that occurred there. An excellent introduction for the layman into the world of how America fights wildfires and the brave men and women who do the back breaking work on the ground. Makes you question our motivations for putting out fires that probably should just burn. Certainly property should be protected, but at what cost. Nevertheless, heart wrenching tale of the loss of brave lives.

Author and former wildland-fire hotshot Kyle Dickman does a superb job of illuminating the personalities and incredibly challenging role of the hotshots, and of exploring the catastrophic events of the Yarnell fire. The writing is clear and compelling, the story is wrenching. Anyone who lives in a fire-prone area should read this, as well as anyone fascinated by the unfolding story of a modern disaster and the policies that influence such events. With climate change crisping the desert southwest, devastating tales like this one could, sadly, become more prevalent. Read it and weep.