Those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic — paramedics, EMTs, firefighters and police officers — faced unprecedented challenges as they navigated the evolving crisis. They responded to emergency calls with limited protective equipment, worked grueling shifts and bore witness to an overwhelming loss of life. While much of the public saw the pandemic through news reports and statistics, first responders lived it — day in and day out.
In the years since, some responders have chosen to document their experiences, not only as a means of processing what they went through, but also to ensure that history does not overlook the realities they endured. Their accounts provide an unfiltered look at the struggles, ethical dilemmas and emotional toll of responding to those in need during a global pandemic. These firsthand accounts are more than personal narratives; they serve as critical records of a system pushed to its limits and the individuals who carried it through.
Funny and heartwarming, inspiring and poignant, “First responder” follows Jennifer’s journey to becoming an EMT and working during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. She will bring readers inside an intense world filled with crisis, rescue, grief, uncertainty and dark humor.
Did we miss a book you think should be included in the list? Email us at editor@firerescue1.com.
“Modern day Rosies” is an artfully infused story of how Paramedic Kate Bergen faced her demons and dug out her paintbrush. The book is about the women who answered the call to the frontlines of COVID-19, just as Rosie the Riveter had in World War II; each of them scared but determined to help in their own way.
Following one paramedic into hell and back, “Riding the Lightning” tells the story of New York City’s darkest days through the eyes of its frontline medical workers and the community they serve: ordinary people who will continue to make New York an extraordinary place long after it has been reborn from the ashes of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ultimate edition to celebrate the year of the everyday heroes, who changed our way of seeing the world of work and heroism — a picture book without words, timeless, universal and heart-breaking. “Frontline Heroes” is the book to give to anyone who has known and appreciated these heroes, or who wants to recall the best part of ourselves, in the worst of times.
“Every minute is a day” takes us into a hospital ravaged by Covid-19 and is filled with the stories of promises made that may be impossible to keep, of life or death choices for patients and their families, and of selflessness on the part of medical professionals who put themselves at incalculable risk. As fast-paced and high-tempo as the ER in which it takes place, “Every minute is a day” is, at its core, an incomparable firsthand account of unrelenting compassion, and a reminder that every human life deserves a chance to be saved.
Written by one of the many traveling nurses who left their permanent staff positions to answer the call for frontline medical staff to help combat the largest pandemic this century, “Through my eyes” takes you inside the hospital and tells the stories of those who lived and died during this pandemic.
Kate Bergen taught herself to paint nearly 20 years ago, but it was the pandemic that turned her into an artist
First Responder Deals & Discounts
Save up to 7% off Olympic barbells, weight plates, and men’s apparel.
Save up to 20% off rods, fishing gear and apparel.
Save 5% off home furniture and accessories.
Save up to 15% off body care, hair care and personal care products.
Save 10% off hearing aids and accessories.
Save up to 25% off men’s shorts, kids swim and beachwear.
Save up to 5% off holographic glitter, rainbow glitter, glow in the dark glitter, color shifting glitter.
Save up to 20% off chalk bag, chalk bucket, hat and quickdraw pouch.
Save 10% off vitamins, supplements, protein powder and health products.
Save 30% off stools and chairs, hammocks, outdoor blankets, and travel accessories.
Save up to 15% off s3 coffee, water bottles and more.
Save up to 20% off pet lovers, coffee lovers, military and blue line supporters, hunting, fishing and outdoor.
Save up to 25% off stylish home furnishings, décor accents, lighting, and fashion accessories.
Save up to 5% off inflatable stand up paddle boards, electric sup pumps, coolers, and durable mountain gear.
Save up to 20% off camo sunglasses, sport sunglasses, fashion sunglasses.
Save 20% off earbuds, earmuffs, and accessories.
Save up to 18% off engagement rings, meteorite rings, wedding bands and accessories.
Save 10% off premium home, health, wellness, and personal care products.
Save up to 20% off folding pocketknives, EDC knives and all products.
Save up to 100$ off smart pool water monitor system.
Save to 35% off multivitamins supplements and health tests.
Save 10% off diapers and training pants, wipes, and accessories.
Save 10% off t-shirts, kids collections and patriotic apparels.
Save up to 10% off hunting and fishing apparel, gear, and home decor!
Save 30% off bikes, scooters, e-bikes, gear, and parts.
Introducing a premium body care product line that leaves you feeling refreshed, nourished, and confident all day long.
The Inlet is one of the lightest, most portable, and easiest-to-assemble folding kayaks yet! Designed for flat water, it’s playful and light — and ridiculously fast to assemble.
Keep your HiddenMiMonsters Tee clean while grilling. Lightweight, stylish, and durable, this apron will make you look great during those backyard cookouts!
Stream the entire Crunchyroll library ad-free and watch new episodes shortly after Japan*
Save 15% off rings, necklaces, earrings, engagement rings, wedding rings, bracelets, and collections.
Recommended For You
Recognize your dad for both his fatherly and fire service achievements by getting him one of these great gift ideas
Try one (or all) of these ideas and make movement a priority — together!
Explore the books fire leaders, FireRescue1 contributors and experts recommend to advance your career, build leadership skills and inspire the next generation
A look at discounted tech, gear and personal essentials that align with patrol and off-duty needs
The unpredictability of the job can make celebrating the holidays a logistical nightmare; here are some unique ways to stay connected
Grab these firefighter-approved turkey fryers and related equipment
Stock up at 5.11 Tactical, grab a free meal at Chili’s, and enjoy more deals honoring U.S. military and first responders
These stores and restaurants are showing their gratitude to fire and EMS professionals with an abundance of discounts
Find deals on duty gear, household supplies, electronic devices and more — but only for a limited time
On National Punctuation Day, test your knowledge of punctuation
Discover how firefighters can improve sleep and fight fatigue with simple changes like air filters, blackout curtains and humidity control
Books about the catastrophic 9/11 attacks and the long return to normalcy are crucial to the historical record of those we lost and how we moved forward
From paddleboarding and kayaking to fishing in remote areas, discover the gear, training and self-defense strategies outdoor enthusiasts need to stay safe on the water
Insulated, smart, and high-capacity bottles designed to help first responders beat dehydration on shift and beyond
Insightful reads that pass on the FDNY Bravest experience to the next generation of firefighters
