In "The Only Plane in the Sky," Garrett M. Graff masterfully constructs a harrowing, panoramic tapestry of September 11, 2001, through the voices of those who experienced it firsthand. This monumental work transcends traditional narratives, offering an unprecedented 360-degree account of a day that has etched itself indelibly into the heart of American history. Drawing from a rich reservoir of never-before-seen transcripts, declassified documents, and extensive interviews, Graff weaves together nearly five hundred perspectives—ranging from government officials and first responders to survivors and family members—into a vivid and deeply human portrait of resilience, terror, and loss. Beyond merely recounting events, Graff's narrative plunges readers into the chaos and heroism of that fateful day. From the predawn calm of airports to the unimaginable devastation at the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, from the courage on display aboard United Flight 93 to the isolation of Air Force One in the sky, every story contributes a crucial thread to this intricate mosaic of tragedy and courage. "The Only Plane in the Sky" is not just a compilation of eyewitness accounts; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit under siege, a tribute to the bravery of ordinary people thrust into the extraordinary, and an essential addition to the literature of one of the darkest days in modern history.