Fiery Girls
Fiery Girls by Heather Wardell, published by Heather Wardell on March 25, 2021, is a historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two young immigrant women in early 20th-century America. Set against the backdrop of the garment workers’ strike in 1909, the story follows Rosie Lehrer, a shy sixteen-year-old from Russia, and Maria Cirrito, a confident Italian girl, as they navigate their aspirations and challenges in New York City. The narrative delves into their experiences at the Triangle Waist Company, culminating in a tragic fire that profoundly impacts their lives and the broader immigrant community.
Readers will find a richly detailed account of the struggles and resilience of women during this pivotal moment in history. The book presents themes of coming of age and feminist ideals, highlighting the characters’ journeys toward self-discovery and empowerment amidst adversity. With 324 pages, this edition offers a comprehensive look at the historical context and personal stories that shaped the lives of these young women, making it a significant addition to the genre of historical fiction.
Official synopsis Publisher
Two young immigrant women. One historic strike. And the fire that changed America.
In 1909, shy sixteen-year-old Rosie Lehrer is sent to New York City to earn money for her family’s emigration from Russia. She will, but she also longs to make her mark on the world before her parents arrive and marry her to a suitable Jewish man. Could she somehow become one of the passionate and articulate “fiery girls” of her garment workers’ union?
Maria Cirrito, spoiled and confident at sixteen, lands at Ellis Island a few weeks later. She’s supposed to spend four years earning American wages then return home to Italy with her new-found wealth to make her family’s lives better. But the boy she loves has promised, with only a little coaxing, to follow her to America and marry her. So she plans to stay forever. With him.
Rosie and Maria meet and become friends during the “Uprising of the 20,000” garment workers’ strike, and they’re working together at the Triangle Waist Company on March 25, 1911 when a discarded cigarette sets the factory ablaze. 146 people die that day, and even those who survive will be changed forever.
Carefully researched and full of historic detail, “Fiery Girls” is a novel of hope: for a better life, for turning tragedy into progress, and for becoming who you’re meant to be.
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