Ground Zero
Readers rate it 4.5 (18 on Hardcover)
320 pages · Released Feb 2, 2021 · Scholastic Press
Content report card
What's inside
Sexual content
LGBTQ+ themes
Substance use
What it offers
A note for parents
Ground Zero is a historically significant dual-narrative novel about 9/11 and its global aftermath that combines intense, sometimes graphic depictions of violence and trauma with powerful messages about compassion, courage, and breaking cycles of revenge. The book is emotionally demanding and deals with real tragedy, death, and the moral complexity of conflict, making it best suited for mature middle-grade and early teen readers who can process heavy themes. While the content is challenging, the author's purpose is educational and humane—to help young readers understand history and develop empathy across cultures and experiences.
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From the publisher
In time for the twentieth anniversary of 9/11, master storyteller Alan Gratz (Refugee) delivers a pulse-pounding and unforgettable take on history and hope, revenge and fear -- and the stunning links between the past and present. September 11, 2001, New York City: Brandon is visiting his dad at work, on the 107th floor... In time for the twentieth anniversary of 9/11, master storyteller Alan Gratz (Refugee) delivers a pulse-pounding and unforgettable take on history and hope, revenge and fear -- and the stunning links between the past and present. September 11, 2001, New York City: Brandon is visiting his dad at work, on the 107th floor of the World Trade Center. Out of nowhere, an airplane slams into the tower, creating a fiery nightmare of terror and confusion. And Brandon is in the middle of it all. Can he survive -- and escape? September 11, 2020, Afghanistan: Reshmina has grown up in the shadow of war, but she dreams of peace and progress. When a battle erupts in her village, Reshmina stumbles upon a wounded American soldier named Taz. Should she help Taz -- and put herself and her family in mortal danger? Two kids. One devastating day. Nothing will ever be the same.
Shelved under
- Juvenile Fiction
- Plot driven
- Strong Character Development
- Loveable Characters
- Diverse Characters
- challenging
- dark
- emotional
- informative
- tense
- Young Adult
- Adventure
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ISBN 9781338245752 · Scholastic Press