Heart of Fire

An Immigrant Daughter's Story

By: Mazie K. Hirono

Narrated by: Mazie K. Hirono

“Heart of Fire is a revelatory, evocative, deeply moving book.” (Washington Post)

“Amazing...a memoir I really loved.” (Secretary Hillary Clinton, “You and Me Both” podcast)

“A beautiful book.” (Trevor Noah, The Daily Show)

The intimate and inspiring life story of Mazie Hirono, the first Asian-American woman and the only immigrant serving in the U.S. Senate

Mazie Hirono is one of the most fiercely outspoken Democrats in Congress, but her journey to the U.S. Senate was far from likely. Raised on a rice farm in rural Japan, she was seven years old when her mother, Laura, left her abusive husband and sailed with her two elder children to Hawaii, crossing the Pacific in steerage in search of a better life. Though the girl then known as "Keiko" did not speak or read English when she entered first grade, she would go on to serve as a state representative and as Hawaii's lieutenant governor before winning election to Congress in 2006.

In this deeply personal memoir, Hirono traces her remarkable life from her earliest days in Hawaii, when the family lived in a single room in a Honolulu boarding house while her mother worked two jobs to keep them afloat, to her emergence as a highly effective legislator whose determination to help the most vulnerable was grounded in her own experiences of economic insecurity, lack of healthcare access, and family separation. Finally, it chronicles Hirono's recent transformation from dogged yet soft-spoken public servant into the frank and fiery advocate we know her as today.

For the vast majority of Mazie Hirono's five decades in public service, even as she fought for the causes she believed in, she strove to remain polite and reserved. Steeped in the nonconfrontational cultures of Japan and Hawaii, and aware of the expectations of women in politics--chiefly, that they should never show an excess of emotion - she had schooled herself to bite her tongue, even as her male colleagues continually underestimated her. After the 2016 election, however, she could moderate herself no longer. In the face of a dangerous administration--and amid crucial battles with lasting implications for our democracy, from the Kavanaugh hearings to the impeachment trial--Senator Hirono was called to give voice to the fire that had always been inside her.

The compelling and moving account of a woman coming into her own power over the course of a lifetime in public service, and of the mother whose courageous choices made her life possible, Heart of Fire is the story of a uniquely American journey, told by one of those fighting hardest to ensure that a story like hers is still possible in this country.

©2021 Mazie K. Hirono (P)2021 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

“[A] multigenerational tale...built around her political and feminist awakening...most powerfully, Heart of Fire is about Hirono’s growing determination to loosen her tongue.” (Rebecca Traister, The Cut)

“[A] courageous and vivid depiction of growing up in Hawaii as a poor immigrant.” (The Washington Post)

“By no means does Hirono present her story as just one victory after another, or as simply a political parable. She tells amusing stories about her foibles...[and] confesses to setbacks in her love life.... Grit is the through line of Heart of Fire.” (San Francisco Chronicle)

"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.” (Kirkus Reviews)

A Book with Heart

Loved listening to Mazie Hirono. Her story is an American story for all of us.

I didn’t want it to end

I was struck early on by the way the author paints so beautifully with her words. I soon found myself engulfed in the stories of real struggle and success. Heartbreaking loss and an appreciation for everything, taking nothing for granted. I laughed plenty and cried just as much. I loved hearing about the author’s mother and her never ending fight to better the lives of her loved ones. This same drive put to the benefit of the people of Hawaii, the United States and the world by Senator Hirono. I felt I was loosing a friend when the hoof was finished. Senator Hirono is a Bad Ass! I have my dream dinner guest list and she is on it. I know it won’t ever happen but I am grateful beyond my ability to express here, for the work she does for all of us and for writing her story. It was a beautiful gift from someone who has given her whole life to make the world a better place for everyone. Listen to this book, please.

Inspirational Life Story of an Accomplished Patriot and Politician

I learned so much about the inner workings of American politics at the local, State, and National level from this book. Senator Hirono’s life story gave me a deep appreciation for how much career politicians of integrity gave of their life and talents to build, improve and preserve this great nation. I’m grateful and happy to see that many have bravely shared their invaluable experience and knowledge to enlighten the American public. Highly recommended reading/listening.

Inspiring

Senator Hirono is a masterclass in what it means to be a respectable public servant. Her story relates to many, and is too often overlooked by the flashier media attention grabbing politicians. Listening to this story can help reinvigorate long lost fait in our legislative institutions and the people that steer them.

Amazing women

This is a wonderful book about strong women who persevere through extraordinary situations. So inspiring!!!

Wise woman

What an enlightening story of Mazie’s life. We should all take life as seriously. She encourages me to live better.

Deeply Moving

This is a beautiful, deeply moving memoir. It is a story of family and striving, of succeeding and reaching back to help others.

We are lucky to have Senator Hirono in Congress

I honestly didn’t know Senator Hirono before listening to this book. Therefore. I am particularly glad a choose it. What a wonderful success story. She has taught me a lot in this book. I appreciate her. Eye much. Keep fighting for what is right!! Thank you!!

Mazie’s Journey

Love the plain spoken words which Maxie used to tell her story. I was caught by the sincerity and the reality of her journey. Her words rang true as I saw her family struggles and how her spirit evolved. Perhaps it’s because I admire her straightforward words each time I hear her speak. She doesn’t hold her punches and tells it like it is. That’s what I heard in her reading. Truly enjoyed it.

wonderful

Enjoyed the story Ifelt like I was walking the path with you. As a child of 60's - 80's (76-81 college) I watch my mom fight the right to make her own way. She taught the children that they classified as hard to teach. "Ever Child Can Learn" She taught me more than bricks and mortar. Thank you for sharing.