September 11th, 2001 dawns like any other day for Tyrell, a high school freshman in New York City. His biggest concern should be finding his way around his new school, just a block and a half from the World Trade Center. But in a matter of hours, his world—and America’s—will change forever.
Through Tyrell’s eyes, young readers experience one of the most pivotal moments in American history with immediacy and deep personal connection. As the unthinkable unfolds around him, Tyrell’s thoughts turn to his father, one of New York’s brave firefighters rushing toward danger while others flee. His story becomes a lens through which readers understand not just the events of 9/11, but the human spirit that emerged from tragedy—the courage, sacrifice, and unity that defined America in the aftermath.
Written with sensitivity and careful attention to historical detail, “That September Day” helps a new generation understand the impact of 9/11 through the perspective of someone their age. L.C. Rusch masterfully balances the weight of historical events with age-appropriate storytelling, creating a narrative that educates while it moves and inspires.
Complete with historical references and resources for further learning, this book serves as both a compelling story and a valuable educational tool. It offers young readers a way to connect with this crucial moment in American history, fostering understanding and empathy across generations.
Part of the acclaimed I’m American series, “That September Day” continues the tradition of bringing history to life through the eyes of young people who lived it, helping readers understand how extraordinary moments in history felt to ordinary Americans.
Editorial Review ★★★★★
In this poignant addition to the I’m American series, L.C. Rusch crafts a sensitive and powerful narrative that helps young readers understand one of the most significant moments in recent American history. Through the eyes of Tyrell, a freshman navigating his first days of high school near the World Trade Center, Rusch creates an intimate window into September 11th that makes history immediate and personal for a new generation.
What sets this book apart is its masterful handling of difficult subject matter for young readers. Rusch demonstrates remarkable skill in presenting the events of 9/11 with age-appropriate clarity while honoring the gravity of that day. The decision to tell the story through a teenage protagonist provides young readers with a natural point of connection, making historical events feel immediate and relatable.
The book’s greatest strength lies in its careful balance of personal and historical perspectives. Through Tyrell’s concern for his firefighter father, readers experience both the intimate human drama and the larger historical significance of the day. Rusch’s attention to historical accuracy while maintaining emotional authenticity creates a narrative that educates while it moves.
Particularly impressive is the book’s educational framework. The inclusion of historical references and additional learning resources transforms this compelling narrative into a valuable teaching tool. The author’s ability to weave historical detail into an engaging story demonstrates deep understanding of how young readers learn from and connect with history.
The writing shows remarkable sensitivity in addressing traumatic historical events for a young audience. Rusch’s focus on themes of courage, sacrifice, and unity provides important context for understanding not just the tragedy, but the human response to it. Her portrayal of how ordinary Americans faced extraordinary circumstances offers valuable lessons about resilience and community.
“That September Day” stands as an important contribution to middle-grade historical fiction, offering young readers a way to understand and connect with a pivotal moment in American history.
