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.

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.

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.

Informative / Emotional / Unnerving / Dark / Melancholic

- The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff is a comprehensive oral history of the events of September 11, 2001, compiled from original interviews and sources, including declassified documents.
- The book brings together nearly 500 accounts from people across various walks of life, including first responders, government officials, and survivors, providing a multifaceted perspective on the tragic day.
- Notably, Graff spent over three years researching and crafting this work, piecing together a timeline that offers readers an expansive view of the impact 9/11 had on individuals and the country.

**Garrett M. Graff**  
An American author and historian noted for writing about significant moments in recent US history, with an emphasis on politics, technology, and national security.

**Genelle Guzzman**  
The last survivor rescued from the rubble of the WTC towers on 9/11, working for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey at the time of the attacks.

**President George W. Bush**  
The 43rd president of the United States, whose leadership and actions during the 9/11 attacks are documented as part of his crucial role in ensuring national security.

**Osama bin Laden**  
The founder of the terrorist organization al-Qaeda, responsible for orchestrating the 9/11 attacks and later becoming the target of a significant international manhunt.

Garrett M. Graff

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-10

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Chapters 11-20

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Chapters 21-30

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Chapters 31-40

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Chapters 41-50

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Chapters 51-60

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Chapter 61-Epilogue

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

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