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The Day the World Came to Town

9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland

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The Day the World Came to Town

By: Jim DeFede
Narrated by: Ray Porter
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Perfect for fans of the musical Come From Away!

When 38 jetliners bound for the United States were forced to land at Gander International Airport in Canada by the closing of U.S. airspace on September 11, the population of this small town on Newfoundland Island swelled from 10,300 to nearly 17,000. The citizens of Gander met the stranded passengers with an overwhelming display of friendship and goodwill. As the passengers stepped from the airplanes, exhausted, hungry and distraught after being held on board for nearly 24 hours while security checked all of the baggage, they were greeted with a feast prepared by the townspeople. Local bus drivers who had been on strike came off the picket lines to transport the passengers to the various shelters set up in local schools and churches. Linens and toiletries were bought and donated. A middle school provided showers, as well as access to computers, email, and televisions, allowing the passengers to stay in touch with family and follow the news.

 21st Century Americas Canada Freedom & Security Modern Politics & Government War & Crisis Aviation
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So I had heard about the planes that landed in Canada but this book just makes it seem so much more real. How amazing are the people of Newfoundland.

Amazing stories.

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I saw the film about this 9-11 story a few years ago.
And after listening to this book I can say I doesn't do them justice for they did for people on the 37 airplanes diverted there.

kindness inGander

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Extraordinary circumstances brought about this account of the best of Human nature. The people of Gander should be eternally proud.

Well narrated, a heartwarming account.

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I only heard about this story via the musical as it’s coming to town next year and when I heard there was a book, I couldn’t wait to listen. I was not disappointed - I laughed, I cried … and was narrated with such personality.

The book follows the events of the town of Gander through the eyes of both the locals and stranded passengers, showing incredible generosity and a story of friendship that’ll last forever.

Couldn’t recommend this book enough and thank you Jim Defede for capturing it all perfectly

Incredible story

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interesting piece of history idk about told with style and humour of a difficult subject. only issue was the very many obvious edits in narration, sometimes 2 or 3 sessions in one paragraph... minor gripe

well read well written

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