The Day the World Came to Town
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2002 |
| Founder | Jim DeFede |
| Products | Oral history book |
The Day the World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland is a 2002 oral history authored by journalist Jim DeFede that captures the experiences of the small community of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. This work marks DeFede's debut publication.
Background
Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, Gander International Airport became a pivotal location when North American airspace was shut down by Transport Canada and the FAA. As part of Operation Yellow Ribbon, 42 aircraft were rerouted to Gander. To gather material for his book, DeFede spent two months living in the town after 9/11.
Synopsis
The narrative opens with an overview of Gander’s historical background and its significance in aviation. On September 11, the town, which has an approximate population of 10,000, accommodated 38 unexpected flights carrying nearly 6,800 passengers and crew members who remained stranded until U.S. airspace reopened almost a week later.
According to The Newport Beach Independent:
- "Among the rare positive stories from 9/11, local residents swiftly converted their community into a large-scale refuge for these “plane people,” providing vehicles, meals, bathing facilities, and sleeping arrangements to strangers who were embraced as honorary “Newfies.”
Reception
For The Day the World Came to Town, DeFede received the prestigious 2003 Christopher Award.
See also
- Diverted, television mini-series
- Come from Away, stage musical
- You Are Here, documentary
- Come from Away, film adaptation of the musical