Children's Literature on September 11, 2001
Bravemole
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Lynne Jonell
Inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, Bravemole is a moving story of courage. Perfect for prompting conversations about the tragedy or remembering the brave efforts of all who came forward to help, the tale celebrates the extraordinary capacity of the most humble to make a difference.
Even Firefighters Hug Their Moms
Grade Levels: Primary, Intermediate
Christine Maclean
This lively picture book celebrates imaginative play and family togetherness as it pays a subtle tribute to today's heroes.
Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey
Grade Levels: Primary, Intermediate
Maira Kalman
This is the inspiring true story of the John J. Harvey, a retired New York City fireboat, reinstated on September 11, 2001.
Just a Drop of Water
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Kerry O'Malley Cerra
This middle grade novel, inspired by a deeply personal experience following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, brings to life the confusion, fear, sense of patriotism, and struggles faced in the aftermath of the tragedy. The story about prejudice, school bullying, friendship, and community is experienced through the eyes of a young teenage boy trying to make sense of this life-altering event and the world around him.
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Victoria London, Angela Liang (Illustrator)
This story takes place in modern-day America. The character, Lucy Lee, like everyone else in the world, is rocked by the events of September 11. Her response to the events makes this book an inspirational and heartfelt story.
Peace
Grade Levels: Middle, Secondary
Tucker Shaw
Teens from across the U.S. and around the world share their thoughts on peace, what the world was like before the tragedies, how their lives have changed as a result of those events, and what their hopes and dreams are for the future.
September 11: A Testimony
Grade Levels: Secondary
The Staff of Reuters
This book serves as a testament to those who lost their lives, to those who fought to save them, and to those who are endeavoring to rebuild. The book is filled with more than 135 stunning photographs from Reuters.
Note: Some images in this book may be disturbing
Terrorism (Understanding Issues)
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Gail B. Stewart
Stewart discusses the images, causes, and effects of terrorism, as well as what can be done to prevent it.
Understanding September 11th:Answering Questions About the Attacks on America
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Mitch Frank
In this important book, Time magazine reporter Mitch Frank clearly and concisely explains and answers essential questions about September 11th.
United We Stand: America's War Against Terrorism
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle
Carole Marsh
Timely, factual, sensitive information for children about America's response to terrorism.
With Their Eyes: September 11th: The View from a High School at Ground Zero
Grade Levels: Intermediate, Middle, Secondary
Annie Thoms (Compiler), Taresh Batra (Editor), Anna Deavere Smith
Tuesday, September 11, 2001, began like any other day at Stuyvesant High School, only a few blocks away from the World Trade Center. Within a few hours the students experienced an event that transformed their lives. Here are their firsthand accounts of that day.
