The My Friendly Neighborhood series introduces youngsters to community helpers, with this volume supplying an up-close look at firefighters. Bell focuses on what firefighters do, and readers may be surprised to learn that in addition to putting out fires and rescuing cats from trees, these first responders also educate the public on fire safety and investigate the causes of fires. Full-page color photos show various aspects of the job, from giving first aid to performing truck maintenance, and include diversity among the firefighters themselves. Short sentences are printed on white backgrounds, occasionally adorned with a friendly cartoon firewoman, and are always paired with a photo on the facing page. This clear, albeit slightly bland, presentation of information gives a nicely rounded portrait of these local heroes.