Falling Man by Don DeLillo explores the lives of individuals affected by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, focusing on Keith Neudecker, a Tower survivor, who reconnects with his estranged wife, Lianne, and their son, Justin. The narrative delves into their attempts to cope with trauma, the complexities of human relationships, and various perspectives on the attacks.

Don DeLillo's Falling Man receives mixed reviews. Critics appreciate the novel's exploration of 9/11 trauma and its nuanced portrayal of fragmented lives. DeLillo's prose is often praised for its stark elegance. However, some find the narrative disjointed and characters underdeveloped, making it challenging to emotionally connect with the story.

Readers who appreciate reflective narratives on modern human experiences and the impacts of major events will enjoy Falling Man by Don DeLillo. Fans of Jonathan Safran Foer's Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close or Ian McEwan's Saturday will find similar poignancy and depth in this exploration of life post-9/11.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Contemplative / Dark / Unnerving

- Falling Man by Don DeLillo was published in 2007 and is one of the author's several works that focus on cultural and societal themes in post-9/11 America.
- The novel opens with a vivid portrayal of the events of September 11, 2001, drawing readers in with DeLillo's detailed and gripping narrative style.
- DeLillo is known for his meticulous research, and in Falling Man, he explores themes of trauma, memory, and identity, offering a deep psychological perspective on how individuals cope with catastrophe.

**Keith Neudecker**  
A lawyer who survives the September 11 attacks and struggles with identity and trauma as he navigates the aftermath, including a return to his estranged wife's home. His work at the World Trade Center had been central to his sense of success and self.

**Lianne Glenn**  
Keith Neudecker’s estranged wife, who is an editor living in New York City and experiences the September 11 attacks indirectly. Her work allows her a sense of control, and she grapples with feelings of alienation and the desire for meaning.

**Justin**  
The young son of Keith Neudecker and Lianne Glenn, who experiences the 9/11 attacks largely through the altered behavior of the adults around him. He and his peers piece together their understanding of the event through fragments of overheard conversations.

**Nina**  
Lianne Glenn's mother, a character with artistic inclinations who struggles with self-doubt and relies on substances like cigarettes and painkillers. Her biases and preferences affect her relationships and perspectives, particularly regarding Lianne's marriage.

**Hammad**  
A Middle Eastern character who becomes one of the terrorists involved in the September 11 attacks. His narrative explores his life before the attacks and his radicalization, providing a nuanced portrayal of his character.

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Part 1 Part 1, Chapters 1-3

Falling Man Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapter 4-“On Marienstrasse”

Falling Man Part 1, Chapter 4-“On Marienstrasse” Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Part 2, Chapter 6-“In Nokomis”

Falling Man Part 2, Chapter 6-“In Nokomis” Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Part 3, Chapters 10-12

Falling Man Part 3, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapter 13-“In the Hudson Corridor”

Falling Man Part 3, Chapter 13-“In the Hudson Corridor” Summary & Analysis

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Falling Man

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