Books about 9/11 are a popular genre that provides readers with a deep understanding of the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. These books cover a wide range of topics, including the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and its aftermath.
They also explore the personal stories of survivors, first responders, and families of victims. The books serve as a reminder of the impact of the tragic event on the world and how it has shaped our current society.
1. Muslim Girl: A Coming of Age
Amani Al-Khatahtbeh’s book provides a personal account of growing up as a Muslim woman in the United States after 9/11. It highlights the challenges of facing Islamophobia and the creation of her website, Muslim Girl. The book also delves into Al-Khatahtbeh’s activism and how she has worked to promote understanding and tolerance. Currently on sale for 34% off.
2. The Submission: A Novel
Waldman’s novel, The Submission, follows the story of Mohammad Khan, a Muslim American architect, who designs a garden that is selected as the new 9/11 memorial. Chaos and division arise when his identity is revealed, and he finds an ally in Claire Burwell, the sole 9/11 widow on the jury. Currently, the book is available at a discounted price of 29% off.
3. Saturday
Ian McEwan’s novel, Saturday, takes place In 2003, after the events of 9/11. The story follows the life of Henry Perowne, a man content with his life but facing the uncertainty of an impending war and the trauma of past events. Unlike other works set before 9/11, Saturday explores the aftermath of the tragedy. Currently, the novel is available at a discounted price of 44%.
4. Falling Man: A Novel
DeLillo’s novel explores the aftermath of 9/11 through the eyes of a family. The story delves into the personal struggles of a separated couple and their son as they come to terms with their loss and the far-reaching impact of the tragedy.
The novel provides a poignant and intimate portrayal of the bonds that are made and broken in the wake of a communal yet deeply personal tragedy. Currently, the novel is available at a discounted price of 42%.
5. See No Stranger: A Memoir and Manifesto of Revolutionary Love
Valarie Kaur, a Sikh activist, filmmaker, and civil rights lawyer, shares her perspective on how love can help resolve some of the world’s most challenging issues. In her book, See No Stranger, Kaur emphasizes the importance of using love as a powerful and active force to repair broken relationships.
She was inspired to become an activist after the murders of Sikhs following 9/11. Kaur hopes that her memoir and manifesto will encourage others to embrace revolutionary love as a means of creating positive change in the world. Currently, the book is available at a 21% discount.
6. Fall and Rise: The Story of 9/11
Filled with meticulous reporting from multiple locations, including New York, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, Fall and Rise offers a multifaceted picture of the fateful day. Written by reporter and author Zuckoff, who covered 9/11 and its aftermath for the Boston Globe, this book weaves together multiple perspectives to provide a comprehensive account of the events.
7. The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11
Graff’s nonfiction work, based on years of research and firsthand accounts from nearly five hundred individuals, provides a 360-degree account of the day. The book features government officials, first responders, witnesses, survivors, friends, and family members.
8. My Year of Rest and Relaxation
My Year of Rest and Relaxation, a novel by Ottessa Moshfegh, is a satirical take on the months leading up to the 9/11 attacks. The protagonist spends a year self-medicating with various drugs in an attempt to heal herself through hibernation.
As the date of the attacks approaches, the novel balances dark humor and compassion.
9. The Emperor’s Children
The Emperor’s Children is a novel published in 2007 that follows the story of three college friends in their early thirties leading up to 9/11. The novel is heavily influenced by New York after the attacks and has been compared to the works of both Tom Wolfe and Edith Wharton. Currently, the book is being sold at a discount of 36%.
10. Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001
In his Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Ghost Wars, journalist Steve Coll provides an in-depth account of the covert wars in Afghanistan and the rise of al-Qaeda and Islamic militancy. Through first-hand accounts, Coll offers insight into the causes of the September 11 attacks, shedding light on the CIA’s involvement in the region and its complicated relationship with Osama bin Laden.
Summary
Books about 9/11 provide a unique perspective on the tragic events that unfolded on September 11, 2001. These books range from personal accounts of survivors and family members of victims to investigative reports and historical analyses.
They offer a deeper understanding of the impact of the attacks on individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole. Some notable books include “102 Minutes: The Untold Story of the Fight to Survive Inside the Twin Towers” by Jim Dwyer and Kevin Flynn, “The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9/11” by Lawrence Wright, and “Let’s Roll!: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage” by Lisa Beamer.