A Fire So Wild: A Novel By Sarah Ruiz Grossman

"A Fire So Wild" has garnered anticipation from Zibby Mag, Electric Literature, The Rumpus, and She Reads. It offers a complex examination of the repercussions of climate change through a diverse array of characters. Author Charlotte McConaghy praises its portrayal of a natural disaster and the ensuing inequality, urging readers not to turn away.

Set in Berkeley, California, the novel unfolds as a wildfire threatens the city, exposing underlying tensions and injustices. Abigail, a wealthy homeowner, organizes a lavish fundraiser for affordable housing, seeking validation from her family. Sunny, a construction worker vying for an apartment, stands to benefit if the event succeeds.

As the fire encroaches, the characters—representing various socioeconomic backgrounds—confront their vulnerabilities and the disparities in their lives. The narrative weaves between their perspectives, revealing the complexities of their struggles and aspirations.

With echoes of "Little Fires Everywhere" and the atmospheric richness of "Disappearing Earth," the novel captures the urgency and turmoil of a community grappling with disaster. Author Ruiz-Grossman skillfully navigates the intersection of social, political, and emotional landscapes, drawing readers into the characters' intertwined dramas.

Through its timely and compelling narrative, "A Fire So Wild" prompts reflection on resilience, community, and the enduring impact of environmental crises. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, justice, and survival in a world increasingly defined by uncertainty and upheaval. As the flames spread and tensions flare, the novel offers a poignant exploration of what remains when everything else burns away.