Touched By Fire

Drawing from historical events, Watts (Clay Man: The Golem of Prague) addresses European anti-Semitism, immigrant life, and labor rights in early 20th-century New York City. Miriam and her Jewish family were attacked by the Cossacks in their hometown of Kiev, Russia, and they foresee trouble from Kaiser Wilhelm after they relocate to East Berlin. Miriam's father works all hours as a tailor to buy tickets to America, the "Golden Land," but the trip will separate the family. He arrives first and writes encouraging letters back. Fourteen-year-old Miriam follows in 1910, sent on the arduous two-week boat ride alone because of her baby sister's delicate health and her brother's stubborn unwillingness to leave. Miriam finds work with the unscrupulous Shirtwaist Kings, briefly enjoying new friends and freedoms, only to be struck down by disaster. Watts offers a scrupulously researched portrayal of the Triangle Waist Company fire and the conditions that led to the tragedy. Her descriptions of the threats and hurdles endured by those who left the familiar behind to immigrate to America are polished, candid, and faithful to Jewish history. Ages 10%E2%80%93up. (Sept.)