Friday, February 7, 2020

Book Review - The Day the World Came to Town

The Day the World Came to Town by Jim Defede is a joy to read, and just what I needed to reassure myself about humanity. I've got tickets for the touring musical production of Come From Away, and my sister recommended this book for preparation.

September 11, 2001 - U.S. airspace is closed due to the terrorist strikes. Thirty-eight jetliners bound for the United States were forced to land in Gander, Newfoundland. This city and surrounding communities came together to give their visitors three days to remember.

back blurb:  Their response to this challenge was truly extraordinary.  Oz Fudge, the town constable, searched all over Gander for a flight crew member so that he could give her a hug as a favor to her sister, who reached him by phone. This story and more are beautifully rendered - a true account of a community that exemplifies love, kindness, and generosity.

Folks stripped beds, cleaned out closets and pantries, and opened their homes to perfect strangers. Yes, come take a shower. Yes, come use our phone. Yes, come for dinner. The answers in Gander were yes, and hesitant travelers soon opened their hearts to this wonderful community. It was a party, and while eager to get home, they hated to leave. Life long friendships were made.

Jim Defede brings a remarkable time and town to life in The Day the World Came to Town.

I want to visit Gander, Newfoundland.

10 comments:

  1. I remember reading about how this community welcomed all those strangers to their town. This sounds like a wonderful, heartwarming book.

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    1. This is right up your alley. You'll enjoy the different tales and care about the people in town and who came from away.

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  2. Yeah, they sure did a lot. Those newfies are a nice bunch.

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  3. A wonderful read Joanne.
    Hope you are well and happy.

    Yvonne.

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  4. I am putting this on my reading list right now.

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    1. glad to suggest a winner. If I lived close, I'd lend it to you. Enjoy!

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    1. Let's plan on meeting there sometime...wouldn't that be a hoot.

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