About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking questions about the historical significance of September 11 or if they are struggling to understand how a single event can affect people from vastly different walks of life. It is an ideal bridge for parents who want to introduce this heavy subject through a lens of empathy and shared humanity rather than focusing solely on the tragedy itself. The story follows four middle-schoolers in the days leading up to the attacks: Sergio in New York, Will in Pennsylvania, Naheed in Ohio, and Aimee in California. While the climax involves the historical event, the bulk of the narrative focuses on the everyday lives, anxieties, and cultural identities of the children. It is particularly helpful for discussing religious diversity and the impact of prejudice, as Naheed, a Muslim girl, navigates her identity during a time of rising tension. Baskin handles the subject with extreme care, making it accessible for ages 8 to 12 without being graphic, ultimately emphasizing how we are all connected.
