Remembering September 11, 2001: What We Know Now

Children's Literature - Greg M. Romaneck

Nearly ten years have passed since the terrible events of 9/11. Over that time period a great deal has been learned about many aspects of the terrorist attacks that marred that day in American history. In Remembering September 11Mara Miller takes a look back at the events that made 9/11 one of the most stunning occurrences in modern American history. Further, Mara Miller also provides new outlooks on critical factors connected to the attack that literally sparked America's War on Terror. In telling this story Miller does a wonderful job of not only capturing the facts and figures but also the human cost of the attacks. Through eyewitness accounts, many made by people who perished during the 9/11 attacks, Miller recreates the stunning storyline that changed the course of so many things. Additionally, by piecing together information from the 9/11 Commission and other sources, Miller offers readers insights into a wide range of variables that were unknown at the time of the events. For example, concerns over non-compatible first responder radio equipment, structural factors linked to the Twin Towers collapse, and issues connected to air defense response time all make for fascinating reading. In the end, Remembering September 11is a book that will be difficult for some readers with memories of those dark days to read. However, through the author's diligence and dignified handling of the losses inherent in this story, readers who peruse the pages of this fine book will come away better informed and more thoughtful about the world around them. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck