The Great Fire

By: Jim Murphy

Narrated by: Taylor Mali

The Great Fire of 1871 was one of the most colossal disasters in American history - with damage so profound that few people believed the city could ever rise again. By weaving personal accounts of actual survivors together with careful research, Jim Murphy constructs a riveting and dramatic narrative, ultimately revealing how the human spirit triumphed even in a time of deepest despair and the people of Chicago found the courage and strength to build their city once again.©2006 Jim Murphy (P)2003 Audio Bookshelf

Wow. I didn't know that!

This was an incredible story and well worth the listen. In a way, people haven't changed much. It was most disheartening about how dishonest the media was about the situation.

Incredible Storytelling of Chicago's Great Fire

I had been aware of the rumor about the cow starting the fire, but had dismissed it. This is a really good telling of the Chicago's fire in the late 1800s. Just enough detail, some good endings. But, what horrible devastation as well. Whoever they are who are at fault no doubt had to live with that stabbing at their conscience for the rest of their lives. I dud enjoy this a lot. it was a "listen in one sitting" book! Great narration and detailed enough to know what was going on, but not too much. Great job. Thank you.

Informative

Narration is clear and appropriately nuanced.

This story is an important description of this conflagration and tribute to the citizenry fighting to contain and recover from this devastating tragedy.