72 pages 2 hours read

Garrett M. Graff

The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff offers an oral history of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks through firsthand accounts from more than 500 individuals, including survivors, first responders, bystanders, and government officials, to depict the harrowing events of the day. The narrative illustrates the catastrophic impact on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93, as well as the emotional aftermath for those affected. The book includes graphic depictions of violence, loss, and trauma.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Garrett M. Graff's The Only Plane in the Sky is a gripping, meticulously researched oral history of 9/11 that immerses readers in the day's events. Praised for its emotional depth and detailed narrative, some found its fragmented format disjointing. Overall, it is acclaimed for bringing human experiences to the forefront of the historical tragedy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Only Plane in the Sky?

Readers who are captivated by oral histories and firsthand accounts of historical events will enjoy The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff. Similar to The Looming Tower by Lawrence Wright and 102 Minutes by Jim Dwyer and Kevin Flynn, this book offers a deeply personal and multi-perspective narrative of 9/11’s impact.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: U.S.

Crime / Legal

History: World

Period

September 11 Attacks

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Genre

Biography