The Phantom Firefighter by J.W. Jarvis

What worked:

Noah finds a book in an inconspicuous, small-town bookstore that’s about the life of a firefighter. The next thing you know, Noah thinks he’s dreaming about being inside the firefighter’s story and leading his team into a burning building. However, Noah’s unaware that his father believes he’s dreaming about observing the same experience. It’s an innovative twist to have a father and son unknowingly go through the same events in dream-like states. As the synopsis shares, other characters are drawn into the story later.

Most of the story happens inside the fireman’s diary so readers accompany the characters on various fire emergencies. The story shares different aspects of firefighting that might be new to young readers. The calls range from a house fire rescue to a raging forest inferno, to an oil tanker truck engulfed in flames. The narrative describes strategies used by firefighters in different situations to save victims and to keep themselves safe. What should firefighters do if they’re trapped in the middle of a forest fire with no route to escape? The book highlights fireman Zach’s promotions up the leadership ladder until he becomes the captain of a firehouse.

What didn’t work as well:

The narrative explains everything about the characters and what’s happening so it requires very little inferencing. Readers don’t need to use their imaginations as much which limits them from becoming more personally connected with the characters and story. Also, the book’s synopsis reveals way more about the plot than it should so there are no surprises until Noah returns the diary.

The Final Verdict:

The book presents a creative way to share what it’s like to be a fireman in life-threatening situations. Noah’s story is motivating but it would be even better if the author had left more to the imagination. Overall, I recommend this book to readers looking for a quick-read adventure.