The book Nine, Ten is primarily set in the two days leading up to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The narrative spans multiple geographical locations across the United States, following the individual journeys of four middle schoolers.
Time Period
The story unfolds on September 9th and 10th, 2001, just before the catastrophic events of 9/11. This specific timeframe is crucial as it captures a moment of innocence and normalcy across the country, contrasting sharply with the profound changes that are about to occur. The book's title itself reflects these two pivotal days.
Key Locations
The story follows four distinct characters, each situated in a different part of the United States. While their paths briefly intersect at Chicago's O'Hare Airport, their individual stories primarily take place in their respective hometowns. These diverse settings provide a broad perspective on American life just before a defining national tragedy.
The main geographical settings include:
- Chicago, Illinois: Specifically, O'Hare Airport, where the four protagonists momentarily cross paths. This acts as a central nexus before their individual stories diverge.
- New York City, New York: Home to one of the middle school characters. This iconic metropolis is a key location given its significance in the events of 9/11.
- Southern California: The residence of another character, offering a contrast to the East Coast settings.
- Ohio: Where a third middle schooler resides, representing the Midwest.
- Small-town Pennsylvania: The home of the fourth character, providing a glimpse into rural American life.
These varied backdrops allow the author to explore different facets of American society and how the impending national crisis affects individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Character Home Locations
To provide a clearer overview of the scattered settings, here is a breakdown of the characters' primary home locations:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| New York City, New York | Home to one of the main middle schoolers. |
| Southern California | Home to another middle schooler. |
| Ohio | Residence of a third middle schooler. |
| Small-town Pennsylvania | Home to the fourth middle schooler. |
The intricate weaving of these settings underscores the widespread impact of the events to come, touching lives across the nation from bustling metropolises to quiet rural communities. The book uses these distinct places to build a compelling narrative leading up to a shared national experience.
