The Novel

Overview

In his gut-wrenching, heartfelt novel, Author Alan Gratz acknowledges the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New york city on September 11, 2001. Gratz uses two characters to deliver two takes on the attack and how it affected their everyday lives.

New York City - September 11, 2001:  Brandon goes to work with his dad on the 107th floor of the World Trade Center after being suspended from school the day before. When Brandon ventures off onto a lower floor, an airplane crashes into the building, instantly creating chaos, confusion, and terror. Will Brandon escape this nightmare and make it out of the tower alive?

Afghanistan - September 11, 2019:  Reshmina has never known a life without war, and her dream is to one day live in peace and prosperity. When war reaches her family's village, she comes across an injured American soldier, Taz. Should Reshmina help the soldier and put her family and village in danger, or should she leave him behind?

Two kids. One day. Eighteen years apart. Will things ever be the same?