Ablaze

Sometimes a picture book does more than tell a story—it lights a spark.

Ablaze introduces us to Deanne Shulman, the first female smokejumper in the U.S., and it completely swept me off my feet. As someone who believes in stories that empower and expand what’s possible, this one struck a chord. Deanne didn’t just break barriers—she ran headfirst into smoke and fire so others could follow.

Sarah Gonzales’s illustrations bring Deanne’s courage and grit to life, and Jessica Lawson’s words remind us that trailblazers often start as curious kids who love climbing trees and asking “why not me?”

This book isn’t just for Women’s History Month—it’s for every young reader who dares to dream a little bigger. Especially those who need to see what courage looks like.