Books That Take You There: 9/11

September 11, 2001 will always live in the minds and hearts of Americans because of the horrific terrorist attacks that were carried out at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon that day. Around 2,977 people lost their lives, and many tales of bravery and heroism have come to light. The following books provide more information on the events as they unfolded, as well as, more personal remembrances and stories.

Smoke at the Pentagon: Poems to Remember

Written by Jacqueline Jules

Illustrated by Eszter Anna Rácz

Fresno, CA: Moon Shower, an imprint of Bushel & Peck books, 2023. Informational.

Told in numerous points of view of young people living in the area of northern Virginia at the time of the attack on the Pentagon, this novel in verse is composed from composites of their personal experiences.

The 9/11 Terrorist Attacks: A Day That Changed America

By Amy Maranville

North Mankato, MN: Capstone Press, 2022. Informational. 32 pages.

An informative look at what led to the attacks, details from the day itself, and the impact these events have had on America as its moved forward. Chapters include: A Tuesday Morning, Two More Planes, Inside the Buildings, and A Changed World.

I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001

Written by Lauren Tarshis

Illustrated Janice Chang

New York: Scholastic Inc., 2021. Comics. 147 pages.

A graphic novel adaptation of the ever-popular I Survived series, I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001 follows the character of Lucas who on the morning of 9/11 is traveling into New York City to talk over his parents' decision that he quit football with his Uncle Benny, a firefighter. But, just as he arrives at the firehouse, the events of that memorable day begin to unfold. A gripping fictional storyline that includes informational back matter and photographs, this graphic novel will appeal to history lovers and comic buffs alike.

Survivor Tree

Written by Marcie Colleen

Illustrated by Aaron Becker

New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2021. Informational.

Survivor Tree gives a sensitive, multi-layered look at the true story of a Callery pear tree that grew at the base of the twin towers. The tree's story is bolstered by a correlating illustrative timeline of a brother and sister growing up with the tree, and subsequently the sister's implied loss in one of the towers. Closure is reached when the tree, after being nurtured back to health over nine years, is returned to the 9/11 Memorial.

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