The Little Chapel That Stood - A.B. Curtiss

Summary

Author Kurtis Kurtis shares the story behind 'The Little Chapel That Stood,' a children's book about 9/11. The narrative focuses on St. Paul's Chapel, which survived near the World Trade Center despite the surrounding destruction. Kurtis discusses the historical significance of the chapel, its resilience, and the community's response to the tragedy. The book, which includes personal accounts and the author's reflections, serves as a tribute to courage, unity, and the American spirit in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• 📚 The book 'The Little Chapel That Stood' by Bee Kurtis recounts the events of 9/11 and the resilience shown by Americans.
• 🏙️ St. Paul's Chapel, located less than a hundred yards from the World Trade Center, survived the attacks despite the destruction of surrounding buildings.
• ⛪️ The chapel's historical significance is highlighted by its connection to figures like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, and its role as a service depot for rescue workers post-9/11.
• 🗽 The book emphasizes the unity and bravery of Americans in the face of tragedy, focusing on the courage and freedom that define the nation.
• 📖 The author's personal connection to the event is shared, illustrating the emotional impact of 9/11 and the inspiration behind creating the book.
• 👨‍🎓 The book was self-published by the author after no publishers were interested, demonstrating the power of personal conviction in sharing important stories.
• 🏛️ The Smithsonian Institution recognized 'The Little Chapel That Stood' as a significant work of children's literature, integrating historical facts with an uplifting message.
• 🏥 The book's impact is underscored by its use in educational programs and its role in changing perspectives on 9/11, focusing on courage over destruction.
• 🏛️ St. Paul's Chapel is not only a historic site but also a symbol of hope and resilience, standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City.
• 🌟 The book serves as a memorial to those who perished on 9/11, offering a narrative that honors their memory and the collective response to the attacks.

Q & A

What is the title of the book mentioned in the script?

The title of the book is 'The Little Chapel that Stood'.

What significant event is the book about?

The book is about the 9/11 attacks and the fall of the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center.

Why is St. Paul's Chapel significant in relation to the 9/11 attacks?

St. Paul's Chapel is significant because it miraculously survived the 9/11 attacks despite being less than a hundred yards from the World Trade Center, and it became a service depot for rescue workers.

Which notable historical figures were members of St. Paul's Chapel?

Alexander Hamilton and George Washington were members of St. Paul's Chapel.

When was St. Paul's Chapel built, and what was its original affiliation?

St. Paul's Chapel was built in 1766, and it was originally part of the Church of England and the London parish.

What personal connection does the author have with the events of 9/11?

The author was born in New York City and was contacted by her mother about the attacks while she was living on the West Coast.

How did the author's daughter influence the creation of the book?

The author's daughter insisted that she turn her poem into a children's book about 9/11, highlighting courage and bravery.

What was the response of the Smithsonian Institution to the book?

The Smithsonian Institution chose 'The Little Chapel that Stood' as the feature book in their 'Our Story' program about 9/11 for schools and libraries.

What unusual event is associated with the book according to the lawyer of Zacharias Moussaoui?

The lawyer of Zacharias Moussaoui claimed that the book influenced his defense strategy and contributed to Moussaoui receiving a life sentence instead of the death penalty.

What message does the author intend for readers of 'The Little Chapel that Stood'?

The author intends for readers to remember 9/11, understand the courage and bravery of Americans, and recognize the enduring spirit of freedom and unity in the face of terror.