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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Come From Away summary
Irene Sankoff
Brief summary
Come From Away by Irene Sankoff is a heartfelt book that tells the inspiring true story of the 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them with open arms after the 9/11 attacks. It showcases the power of human kindness and highlights the beauty of unity during times of adversity.
Table of Contents
Come From Away
Summary of key ideas
Newfoundland Joins the Global Stage
As we dive into Come From Away by Irene Sankoff, we're promptly transported to the serene town of Gander in Newfoundland. This peaceful, out-of-the-way locale unexpectedly becomes a critical player on September 11, 2001. When 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers are grounded in Gander after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the townspeople rise to the occasion.
The first half of the narrative primarily focuses on the initial confusion and panic of the passengers and townsfolk. Despite the language barriers, lack of information, and shock at the global tragedy unfolding, the community's kindness and resilience form a beacon of light amid the chaos.
Extraordinary Acts of Kindness
Moving forward, Sankoff shares heartfelt accounts of gregarious locals opening their homes and hearts to the displaced passengers. Cots in school gyms and community centers are set up as temporary accommodation, while supply drives ensure the "plane people" are well-fed and taken care of. The sense of community displayed by the Newfoundlanders is a testament to their humble way of life.
Interpersonal relationships bloom amidst the adversity: Beulah Cooper, a Gander local, strikes up an unlikely friendship with Hannah O'Rourke, a passenger worried about her firefighter son back in New York. Another narrative strand introduces us to Diane and Nick, passengers on the same flight who eventually fall in love during their stay in Gander.
Uniting in the Face of Adversity
The third act of Come From Away pays homage to how the global tragedy became a conduit for unity and transformation. Sankoff spotlights the poignant communal gathering where everyone participates in a multicultural celebration of music, food, and shared humanity, momentarily distracting from the ghastly reality.
Colonel Sam Barone, an American military officer in Gander, expresses gratitude for the hospitality of the Newfoundlanders. The feeling is mutual as the townsfolk appreciate the opportunity to help, embodying the fact that even in crisis, our shared humanity prevails.
Aftermath and Long-Lasting Bonds
As we near the end of Come From Away, Sankoff navigates through the aftermath—planes taking off and the town waving goodbye to their newfound friends. It’s touching to observe the long-lasting bonds formed and the transformation of passengers, thankful for the kindness and generosity shown to them.
In what can be considered a perfect summation of the story, Captain Beverley Bass—American Airlines’ first female captain—reflects on the intense human experience she and all the passengers went through in Gander. She, like many others, will forever be bound to this town by the strings of humanity and compassion.
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What is Come From Away about?
Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of a small town in Newfoundland that opened its doors to thousands of stranded airline passengers in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Through interviews and firsthand accounts, the book explores the kindness and generosity of the townspeople, as well as the bonds that were formed in the face of tragedy. It is a heartwarming tale of compassion and unity in the midst of adversity.
Come From Away Review
Come From Away (2020) tells the incredible true story of how a small town in Newfoundland opened their hearts and homes to thousands of stranded airline passengers during the September 11 attacks. Here's why this book is a must-read:
- With its heartwarming tales of kindness and compassion, it reminds us of the power of human connections even in the face of tragedy.
- Through personal interviews and accounts, the book brings to life the resilience and strength of ordinary people who showed extraordinary generosity.
- By highlighting the unforgettable stories of the passengers and the townspeople, it offers a unique perspective on a moment in history that changed countless lives.
Who should read Come From Away?
- People interested in heartwarming stories of human connection and resilience
- Readers looking for a unique perspective on the events of September 11th, 2001
- Those who enjoy learning about different cultures and the power of community
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Book summaries like Come From Away
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Come From Away FAQs
What is the main message of Come From Away?
The main message of Come From Away is the power of human kindness and compassion in times of crisis.
How long does it take to read Come From Away?
The reading time for Come From Away varies depending on the reader, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Come From Away a good book? Is it worth reading?
Come From Away is a heartwarming and inspirational book that is definitely worth reading. It captures the resilience and generosity of the human spirit.
Who is the author of Come From Away?
The authors of Come From Away are Irene Sankoff and David Hein.
What to read after Come From Away?
If you're wondering what to read next after Come From Away, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda