The Great Chicago Fire

Children's Literature - Kathryn Erskine

Part of the "Essential Events" series, Owens presents an easy to read, easy to follow look at the events that led to Chicago's 1871 fire, the fire itself, and the aftermath. The way the city was constructed, a nonworking alarm, and human error all contributed to the fire, but most residents blamed Mrs. O'Leary's cow. Much coverage is given to Mrs. O'Leary and her cow, how the Irish immigrant was most likely a scapegoat, the fact that testimony of neighbors was questionable, and the cultural legacy in story and song of the unfortunate Mrs. O'Leary. Even today, experts cannot say what, exactly, started the blaze, although the cow knocking over a lantern story is dubious. Interesting sidebars about life at the time, excerpts from testimony and letters, and photographs and period sketches all serve to make an enlightening reference book. A glossary, index, timeline, and myriad additional resources contribute to its usefulness for school reports as well as general interest. Reviewer: Kathryn Erskine