Heart of Fire tells the powerful story of an immigrant family and how they held together through poverty; xenophobia; and abuse as they pursued American ideals of equality, justice, and freedom. It is one of the most inspiring and authentic political memoirs among a sea of self-aggrandizing political titles of recent years. Hirono also bring journalistic objectivity about the obstacles she overcame regarding the misogyny and condescending culture in the male dominated halls of Congress.

The most successful and satisfying [political memoirs] make a significant political argument or draw back the curtain to reveal previously unknown details and truths about the authors and the events they have witnessed. In this regard Heart of Fire, which traces Mazie Hirono’s journey from poor immigrant to U.S. senator, is partially successful. When Hirono writes about her childhood, her mother and family, their arrival in Hawaii from Japan, and the poverty, hardship, fear and struggle they faced, Heart of Fire is a revelatory, evocative, deeply moving book. The sections dealing with Hirono’s political rise in Hawaii and her time in Congress are more guarded and less compelling.

Hirono has written one of the finest political memoirs in the history of the genre.

Hirono is fierce and forthright as she shares the life experiences that led to her becoming a U.S. senator from Hawaii.

... inspiring.

With both ferocity and compassion, Hirono chronicles her experiences in Congress, exposing the rampant hypocrisy and illogical behavior she has witnessed. At the same time, warmth and love shine through, as she attributes her success and determination to the example set by her mother. A heartfelt and fiery political memoir and immigrant story..