Synopsis
Background on the history and construction of the Pentagon accompanies an account of the events of September 11, 2001, when this massive structure was attacked by terrorists.
Sue Reichard - Children's Literature
It is the largest office building in the world and its business is war. The fact-filled slim volume, part of the series, "Super Structures of the World" by the Learning Channel, reveals the Pentagon to young readers. They will learn about the events that occurred at the Pentagon on September 11, 2002 when the building was attacked by terrorists who flew a passenger plane into the side of the building. The history of the Pentagon is also discussed and the uniqueness of its shape. It is a solid concrete structure and one of the strongest buildings in the world. Because of the design of the building and its long hallways, some of the employees ride bicycles to get around inside. The Pentagon was built in response to World War II and the necessity to gather all of the United States War Department into one building. General Brehon Somervell was chief of the construction of the building which was designed in only three days. The building had to be fireproof and be large enough for over 40,000 people. Readers will enjoy learning about the distinctiveness of the building which has five sides, five rings and five floors. There is no other building anywhere in the world like it. Today, the Pentagon's parking lot is large enough to hold over 10,000 cars. Color and black and white photographs add interest and depth to the easy-to-read text. A glossary and index are also included. This volume is an excellent resource for library media centers. 2003, Blackbirch Press, Ages 9 to 12.