Santa Barbara–based firefighter Jorge Hurtado brings the world of wildland firefighting to life for kids with his Sparky the Brave Wildland Firefighter series. With two previous books about the importance of teamwork and lessons on fire safety and caring about the environment, his third book in the series, Sparky the Brave Wildland Firefighter: Engine Slug Adventures, will be released on November 1, continuing the story of Sparky the brave bear and his firefighting friends as they take on new challenges in the wild.
According to a press release, Hurtado began his firefighting career in 2016 as a seasonal wildland firefighter in the Cleveland National Forest near San Diego. He then worked at the Angeles National Forest in Los Angeles. Since 2023, he has worked in Los Padres National Forest.
Through lively storytelling and colorful illustrations, Hurtado invites young readers to learn about the courage of wildland firefighters, the science behind fire, key fire prevention tactics and safety lessons, and the importance of respecting nature through stewardship. The books have become favorites for local schools and classrooms, public libraries, Junior Ranger and youth programs, community fire prevention programs, and family reading at home…