About Dances with Fire: Lessons in Life, Faith & Firefighting
A gripping coming-of-age memoir about a shy young woman who joined a wildland fire crew and developed determination, grit, and a deep camaraderie with fellow firefighters as they battled some of the nation’s toughest wildfires. From the mountains in Oregon to remote landscapes of western wildlands, Kate faced extreme physical and mental challenges that all firefighters must overcome.
She worked alongside veteran firefighters in a dangerous and dynamic environment as they undertook the thrilling and dangerous job of fighting wildfires to protect one of our nation’s greatest natural resources— our public lands and those who live near them.
Old letters and smoke-filled memories turned into chapters that share my adventures as a hotshot in my memoir Dances With Fire. While working as a wildland firefighter in the late ‘80’s and early 90’s, I knew the circumstances of my summer job were extraordinary.
After graduating from the University of Oregon, I taught high school English for 10 years. I realized the importance of story to inspire us to push beyond our comfort zones. I wrote my own story of crossing the threshold into the unknown as an ordinary person faced with extraordinary circumstances.
We have an obligation to care for our planet and our people. When I’m outside, usually with a four-legged friend nearby, I learn things from nature when I pay attention. I’m curious about matters of the heart and challenges for the soul—and love when they’re framed in a good story.