Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey
By Maira Kalman
The Story
A retired New York City fireboat, once the fastest and shiniest of its time, is rescued from the scrap heap by a group of friends — then called back into action on September 11, 2001.
Why It's Special
For the kid who loves trucks, boats, and anything with a job to do, this is the true story of a machine that got a second chance to be useful when the whole city needed it.
- Big idea: Old heroes never really retire — they wait, ready, for the moment they're needed again.
- Vibes: Warm, plainspoken, and quietly stirring, with a true story that moves from playful history to solemn courage.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy stories about boats, trucks, and machines with jobs to do
- are curious about real history and true stories
- respond well to calm, honest introductions to September 11
- like to root for the underdog making a comeback
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & history: Why do you think the city didn't need the Harvey anymore in 1995?
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think the friends had to do to save the Harvey from the scrap heap?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the Harvey felt when the fire department called and asked for help again?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever seen a fireboat, fire truck, or other rescue vehicle at work?
- Big ideas: What does it mean that 'old heroes never die'?
