“A nuanced portrayal of fire as a force to be respected.”—Publishers Weekly

Life as we know it evolved with fire; there is no us without it. With lyrical text grounded in the latest research, this picture book shares the primal connection between all living things and fire. Children will understand that everything they know in the world has evolved with fire.

There is comfort in understanding the natural processes taking place all around. By learning the story of fire and how it has changed this planet, this book also addresses the question: Can we adapt to an increasingly fire-prone environment? This answer is: Yes. Because we always have. 

FIRE SHAPES THE WORLD is both a natural history and a child-friendly portrayal of fire ecology. It is also an encouraging springboard for conversation illuminated by breathtaking paintings, which will allow children to explore their connection to this most elemental agent of change.

Illustrated by: Cornelia Li, Diana Renzina