I was moved to tears over and over as I read her descriptions of New Yorkers' reactions to this disaster. Amy allowed us to get inside her skin and relive this event as one who actually lived in Manhattan. I came as a volunteer, and only briefly touched the lives of ordinary people who lived through this. While my time was with the rescue workers, her focus was on the thousands of ordinary people who lost loved ones, and had to find the strength to go on living long after the last body part was recovered, and the last wreckage was removed.

Anyone who desires to drink deeply from the cup of sorrow endured by so many, and yet also drink freely from the waters of hope and renewal, should read this important book. History will record the facts of this tragedy, but Amy's book will forever capture the heart of the people, and their struggle to regain that which was lost. Her words give us strength to rise out of the ashes of the rubble and take the hand of God, who will never let go.


Superb Reading   August 22, 2002
Bob Legge (Knoxville, TN)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I was a police officer in Maryland in the fall of 2001. I was privileged to command a group of officers from my agency for three days in New York during the relief effort.

Being there was a life-altering event. Reading this book brought all those feelings back. It is a cliche but in this instance an apt one, this book is a MUST read.


A 9/11 "being there" book - a good gift   March 4, 2002
M.D.D. (New York, NY United States)
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

The book captures the "being-there" feelings that relate to the 9/11 event and directs these feelings and experiences into paths that can bring the reader closer to God.
The author makes the story personal without being too personal. It's a "just right" way to tell a story that would make any writer wonder where to begin. Amy Bartlett's recollection of her own 9/11 day was a good way to set the scene and to introduce herself and her pertinent thoughts. She provides a selection of personal stories gained from interviewing others, a fair sampling of the many many stories that this day caused. We will all remember "where we were when..." This is a good gift book - especially for a New Yorker to give to a non-New Yorker.


Outstanding Book on the Sept 11th Disaster   February 11, 2002
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

This book is a must read. Once you pick it up you won't be able to put it down. The author has captured the essence of what really happened at ground zero. The stories are very intense. She has interviewed survivors, police, rescue workers, fireman and Lisa Beamer.