Grade 6 students had the special opportunity of meeting award-winning author Nora Raleigh Baskin this past Friday at an assembly in Memorial Hall. Nora's book, nine, ten: A September 11 Story was a required summer reading for all incoming sixth graders. The thought-provoking story follows four middle school students from across the country in the days leading up to and following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Nora shared personal stories that helped shape her perception of the world, like the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and revealed anecdotes about the research and interviews she conducted while writing her book. Students chimed in with comments and questions throughout the presentation, allowing a fluid dialogue about the impact of terrorism on religious tolerance, racial tensions, and immigration. It was a powerful conversation, leading all to reflect on how the events of September 11, 2001 have shaped our collective perspective.