Towers Falling

Fifth-grader Deja Barnes starts at a new school while living in a homeless shelter with her family. Unfamiliar with the events of September 11, 2001, she embarks on a classroom journey to understand how the attacks continue to affect her community and family, uncovering personal connections to the tragedy.

Recommendation: This novel is ideal for readers aged 9–12 interested in contemporary stories that address historical events and their lasting impact. It offers a sensitive exploration of complex themes suitable for middle-grade audiences.​

Ideal for:

• Children aged 9–12​
• Readers interested in understanding the impact of historical events on personal lives​
• Classroom discussions about community, resilience, and empathy​

Similar Reads:

• Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story by Nora Raleigh Baskin​
• Eleven by Tom Rogers​
• The Red Bandanna (Young Readers Edition) by Tom Rinaldi​

Stylistic Features:

• First-person narrative capturing the protagonist's perspective​
• Incorporates classroom discussions and assignments
• Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate sensitivity​

Content Warnings: The novel discusses the events of September 11, 2001, and includes themes of homelessness and poverty, which are handled thoughtfully for the target age group.