Oct. 25--CALDWELL -- In a new book from Caldwell-based Caxton Press, a veteran rangeland firefighter describes his experiences on the front lines of the West's wildfires.
"Ahead of the Flaming Front: A Life On Fire" is written by former Jack Kent Cooke Scholar and veteran rangeland firefighter Jerry D. Mathes II.
The book takes readers into the heart of wildfires, from the forests of Idaho to the deserts of the Mexican border, and directly into the lives of the men and women who face the terror, beauty, and hardship of life on the fireline.
"With the horrible fire season the west has experienced this year, this book should appeal to all who are interested in what these brave men and women endure while protecting our public lands and homes," Caxton publisher Scott Gipson said. "This book is both timely and important, and has the advantage of being incredibly well written by a man who has lived the life."
Mathes fought wildfires for 14 seasons. He's the author of "The Journal West: Poems" and an essay collection, "Fever and Guts: A Symphony."
He has taught writing at the University of Idaho and at the Southernmost Writers Workshop in the World at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, Antarctica.
"Ahead of the Flaming Front" is available online and in bookstores.
The book was released Sept. 23.
Copyright 2013 - The Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho
