We Remember 9/11: Our Favorite Patriot Day Books and Resources
An RA Book List
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news,” Rogers said to his television neighbors, “my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping. '” -Fred Rogers
Exploring sensitive topics with our children requires a gentle touch, and we've carefully curated this list of picture books and graphic novels having read each one ourselves.
These titles focus on the resilience, compassion, and unity that emerged from the darkness of September 11th. By sharing these stories with your young readers, you can foster meaningful conversations and inspire hope.
As a bonus, at the end of the list, we've added a story of hope and unity that brings together people from around the world, perfect for adults.
14 Cows For America by Carmen Agra Deedy and Thomas Gonzalez
This book tells the story of how the Maasai people gave cows to America as a gesture of support after 9/11. Nine months after the attacks, a Maasai student who had been in New York shared the events with their community. In response, the Maasai offered these gifts to show their solidarity and support. A beautiful and moving story full of compassion and “mourning with those who mourn”.
30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag by Amanda Gilman Davis and Sally Wern Comport
This book chronicles the remarkable restoration journey of a flag from Ground Zero. The flag, initially damaged, was meticulously repaired with pieces from flags of every state, symbolizing a united effort in the face of tragedy. It now proudly resides at the National September 11 Museum as a testament to resilience and national solidarity.
America is Under Attack: September 11, 2001, The Day the Towers Fell by Don Brown
This profusely illustrated short book offers a sensitive and age-appropriate exploration of 9/11 for young readers. Its engaging visuals and brief narrative help explain the events with care and respect.
Branches of Hope: The 9/11 Survivor Tree by Ann Magee, illustrated by Nicole Wong
This book is a beautiful example of hope rising from the ashes. It tells the story of a young girl who, inspired by her uncle's bravery after 9/11, grows up to follow in his footsteps and join the NYC Fire Department.
Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey by Maira Kalman
Fireboat is one of Ambre’s favorite stories, beautifully illustrating how things can be restored to usefulness after being cast aside. This inspiring tale shows how an old fireboat, once retired and forgotten, found new purpose and heroism on 9/11.
We discussed this title in episode 017 Favorite Autumn Books & 9/11 Stories That Make Ambre Cry of the Stories from the Ashes podcast.
Saved By The Boats: The Heroic Sea Evacuation of September 11 by Julie Gassman and Steve Moors
This picture book was penned by a woman who, along with her husband, was evacuated from Manhattan by boat on 9/11. Her experience and the profound impact of that day inspired her to write this story after viewing the documentary Boatlift, which we’ve included at the bottom of this list.
September Roses by Jeanette Winter
This poignant story follows two African women who had just arrived in New York City for a flower show when the first plane struck on 9/11. In the aftermath, they used their flowers to create a stunning and heartfelt memorial, offering a powerful gesture of shared grief and unity across cultures. Their tribute stands as a testament to the universal language of compassion and the deep connections that can emerge even in the darkest of times.
Seven and a Half Tons of Steel: A Post-9/11 Story of Hope and Transformation by Janet Nolan and Thomas Gonzalez
This fascinating story delves into the journey of a steel beam from one of the Twin Towers, repurposed and given new life as the bow of a U.S. Navy warship. The picture book explores the symbolism of resilience and remembrance, showing how a piece of history was transformed into a powerful emblem of strength and unity. It's a moving tribute to those lost and a testament to the enduring spirit that continues to protect and serve.
The Man in the Red Bandanna by Honor Crowther Fagan and John Crowther
This book pays tribute to the remarkable life of Welles Crowther, a volunteer firefighter whose heroic actions on 9/11 saved numerous lives. Known as "The Man in the Red Bandana," Welles led others to safety in the South Tower of the World Trade Center, ultimately sacrificing his own life in the process. This book honors his bravery, selflessness, and the profound impact he left on those he saved.
Survivor Tree by Marcie Colleen, illustrated by Aaron Becker
This book details the recovery of the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience that was saved and restored after the 9/11 attacks. It follows the tree’s journey back to New York City and its role as a symbol of hope and recovery.
We discuss this moving title in episode 017 Favorite Autumn Books & 9/11 Stories That Make Ambre Cry of the Stories from the Ashes podcast.
The Little Chapel That Stood by A. B. Curtiss, illustrated by Mirto Golino
We’re thankful to the author for making this book available for free online. You can also purchase it through the 9/11 Museum gift shop. Click to listen and watch the author’s read-aloud, starting at the 12:50 mark, which includes additional history of the chapel and information about 9/11. It’s a highly educational experience.
The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein
This book recounts a remarkable chapter in the towers’ history. In 1974, French aerialist Philippe Petit accomplished the daring feat of walking a tightrope between the Twin Towers. This captivating story celebrates the towers’ significance and the awe-inspiring achievement that defined a moment of wonder and bravery.
This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth by Sean Rubin
This picture book traces the journey of a Callery pear tree, starting from its planting in the 1970s, through the devastation of 9/11 when it was buried, and its miraculous recovery and return to NYC. It’s a touching reminder of resilience and renewal, showing how something can endure and find new life even after the hardest times.
This graphic novel offers a compelling dual narrative, alternating between the events of 9/11 in New York City and the subsequent war in Afghanistan. It's unique for being one of the few children's books to cover both Building 7 and Flight 93, providing a richer and more accurate depiction of this pivotal moment in history.
Ground Zero Dogs by Meish Goldfish
This powerful book captures the stories and photographs of the heroic dogs who worked tirelessly at Ground Zero. These brave animals played a crucial role in locating the 20 survivors and recovering the bodies of the fallen for identification. Their unwavering dedication and the emotional toll they endured will bring tears to your eyes and a deep sense of gratitude for these remarkable dogs and their handlers.
I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001: A Graphic Novel by Lauren Tarshis; illustrated by Corey Egbert
In this graphic novel designed for early and middle school readers, follow a young boy who finds himself at his father's fire station in New York City during the harrowing attacks on the World Trade Center. Through gentle storytelling and vivid yet non-graphic illustrations, the book offers an emotional exploration of how the attacks impact the lives of ordinary citizens, balancing both the gravity of the events and the resilience of those affected.
BOATLIFT - An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience, a documentary narrated by Tom Hanks
This poignant film recounts the incredible story of the largest sea evacuation in history, when more than 500,000 people were rescued from Manhattan in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Its moving portrayal of ordinary people coming together to perform extraordinary acts of bravery is gentle enough for most children to watch and will make you proud to be an American.
We discuss this documentary in episode 017 Favorite Autumn Books & 9/11 Stories That Make Ambre Cry of the Stories from the Ashes podcast.
For Adults:
The Day the World Came to Town Updated Edition: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland by Jim DeFede
On September 11, when U.S. airspace closed, 38 planes were forced to land in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, nearly doubling its population overnight. In this true story, discover how the people of Gander opened their hearts and homes to over 6,000 stranded passengers, providing food, shelter, and comfort during a time of crisis. From bus drivers coming off strike to transport passengers, to schools offering showers and communication with loved ones, the kindness shown by Gander’s residents forged lifelong friendships and inspired acts of gratitude that continue to this day. This book shares the remarkable story that inspired the Broadway hit musical Come from Away.
Thank you for remembering with us. Please share this list to help others navigate and discuss these important topics.