This novel from Jonathan Safran Foer (recently named one of Granta Magazine's best young American novelists) deals directly with the aftermath of 9/11 and its effect on the lives of those who were touched by the tragedy. The story is (primarily) told from the viewpoint of youngster Oskar Schell, whose father was killed when the World Trade Center collapsed. Oskar, who was closer to his father than any other person in the world, tries to make sense of his loss. When he discovers a vase with a key inside of it in his father's closet, Oskar makes it his mission to understand what his father had to do with the key and with a mysterious person named Black. To that end, he sets out to meet every single person with the last name in New York City.

Along with Oskar, the story is also revealed through the journals of his grandfather (a man who cannot speak and must write everything down - he left his wife and unborn son many years ago) and letters of his grandmother.

The book might be a little too precious for some - Oskar is a brilliant young mastermind with great knowledge of certain things but who is clueless on other subjects. There are also several "devices" used to further the plot that some might find annoying, but I rather liked.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close actually comes to a bit of an abrupt end - as if Foer got tired of writing and just decided to wrap it all up. Even so, it's easy to get wrapped up in Oskar's story and see it through to the end.

One of my all-time favorite books, I always cry at the end. The emotion is pure, painful, and undiluted; maybe too much for some, but I love it. Safran Foer's writing is so beautiful and so original, a totally different experience of 911 explored through a very precocious child. However, I would hate to say that it's only a book about 911, because it's not, it's about family, fathers and sons, love, death, growing up, acceptance, and forgiveness. Absolutely and utterly amazing, I could not possibly find enough words to express my total love of this book.

March 2008- audiobook-

Good story about a boy who searches for the truth about his father's death (Twin Towers 9/11) and coming to terms with his death... and on the way meets some wonderful people. Also a very interesting backstory about his grandparents.

I love Oskar!! He is one of the most endearing characters I have ever read about. You will be swayed by his originality and determination. The grandmother and grandfather bit confused me a little, but they were interesting as well.

Really great book about a boy learning of his ancenstry and history, in the wake of the September 11th, 2001 tragedy. Definitely recommended.

Simply, excellent!