River Selby, author of Hotshot: A Life on Fire

Selby a nonbinary writer and former hotshot wildland firefighter, spent a decade (2000–2010) with elite firefighting crews known as “hotshots”.

River holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Syracuse University.

By age 19, Selby experienced homelessness, substance use, and exploitation. A friend’s suggestion led them to wildland firefighting—a decision that transformed their life.

Despite being “the first woman” on a hotshot crew, Selby navigated rampant sexism, harassment, and self-doubt while working grueling fire seasons.

This memoir skillfully weaves firsthand firefighting experiences, personal trauma and recovery, and contextual reflections on land stewardship, climate change, and colonial legacies.