Jewell Parker Rhodes' Towers Falling has received positive reviews for its sensitive handling of 9/11 and its impact on children today. Reviewers appreciate the novel’s exploration of historical events and their resonance with young readers. Some critiques mention that certain character developments feel rushed. Overall, the book successfully engages a younger audience with an important, complex topic.

Readers who would enjoy Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes are typically middle-grade students, ages 8-12, who appreciate historical fiction and realistic fiction. They may also enjoy books like Number the Stars by Lois Lowry and Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which weave historical events with personal growth and resilience.

In Jewell Parker Rhodes’s Towers Falling, fifth-grader Dèja Barnes navigates her new school, grappling with her family's homelessness and her father's mysterious illness. Through a new curriculum focusing on 9/11, Dèja learns about the attacks' lasting impact, uncovering her father's direct connection to the tragedy. Ultimately, she gains a deeper understanding of her family’s struggles and the importance of remembering history. Sensitive topics include the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and their traumatic aftermath.

Emotional / Hopeful / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Contemplative

Jewell Parker Rhodes

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Towers Falling Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Towers Falling Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-13

Towers Falling Chapters 7-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-18

Towers Falling Chapters 14-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-23 

Towers Falling Chapters 19-23  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 24-28 

Towers Falling Chapters 24-28  Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Towers Falling Character Analysis

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Important Quotes

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Towers Falling

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