A Review of the Book "The Day the World Came to Town" by Jim Defede

Title: The Day the World Came to Town
Author: Jim Defede
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Year: 2002
244 pages

On September 11, 2001, the world came to a halt as two planes crashed into the World Trade Centre, one plane into the Pentagon, and one into a field in Pennsylvania. Everything changed that day as we came to realize that no where on the planet can be deemed completely safe and that something as mundane as an airplane can be used as a weapon. Almost 20 years later , security measures at airports and airplanes are still high and tensions with Middle Eastern countries continue to exist.

One positive thing that came from that horrific event is the revelation of how people come together during times of tragedy. This was especially true for the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland. As 38 jetliners were forced to land in Gander, increasing the population by almost 6,600 people, the townsfolk from all over the province jumped into action to provide shelter, food, showers, and anything else that might come up for the passengers and crew of the airplanes.

"The Day the World Came to Town" contains wonderful stories about how the people of Newfoundland dealt with the events that occurred on September 11th and the week following; true accounts of a community that exemplifies love, kindness, and, especially, generosity. I sincerely recommend this book to everyone, but especially those who love to read true and heartfelt stories. Be sure to have tissues on hand!

To this day, many of the passengers and crew remain in contact with the people of Newfoundland. Over those few days, everyone became family. It was amazing to read about the emotional goodbyes as planes were finally allowed to depart from Gander International Airport.

The book is also the basis for the musical "Come From Away", which I have not yet seen. Although I have listened to the soundtrack many times! If anyone knows of a link from which I can watch the musical, please share!