The nine-year-old Oscar Schell has nothing in common with his peers. He is multi-talented and versatile: an inventor, amateur entomologist, pacifist, letter writer, percussionist, skilled origami artist, detective, and vegetarian.

When his father is killed during the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, Oscar embarks on a journey through the five boroughs of New York City, aiming to unravel the mystery behind the key he discovers in his father's closet.

Through this quest, Oscar will meet various people and briefly learn about their lives. He will also explore the trauma of September 11 through the bombings of Dresden and the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, leading to a personal journey that brings him closer to the peace and tranquility he so desperately seeks...

“Explosive, puzzling, and above all, immensely moving. A rare achievement.” SALMAN RUSHDIE

“Funny, clever, and refreshing.” ESQUIRE

“Serious, comedic, and yet painfully heartbreaking.” HERALD

“A work of genius. It will shock you.” THE TIMES