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I Will Follow You Anywhere: The True Story of the 9/11 Responders Who Took On Congress

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"A graphic but powerful reminder of the horrors of that day—and the horrors that the first responders have faced ever since." —Booklist

Twenty-five years after the attacks that shook the nation, discover the untold story of an American hero who proved that one person can turn trauma into heroic action—from the wounded construction worker who became a relentless champion of the 9/11 responders.


On September 11th, 2001, John Feal rushed to Ground Zero to assist with the recovery and cleanup in the aftermath of the terrorist attack. 96 hours later, his destiny was forged by steel when an 8,000-pound beam crushed his left foot. As he adjusted to a partial amputation and went broke paying medical bills, he watched his fellow responders suffer and die from cancer and other ailments caused by the dust in the air they were told was safe to breathe.

Forgotten by a broken healthcare system and lawmakers who had promised to #NeverForget, Feal knew it was time to fight.

Now, in I Will Follow You Anywhere, he shares his “recipe” for getting things done. Accompanied by stories from his fellow responders in their own words, Feal lays out his rogue approach to the ground game of representative government, empowering readers in all walks of life to take on the system and win.

While working to get the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund and healthcare bill passed, Feal caught the attention of comedian Jon Stewart, who joined the cause and became a valuable ally and dear friend. In 2019, Stewart’s testimony before Congress went viral, placing a much-needed spotlight on the frustration and grief of those long abandoned by their government—and the bill was finally signed into law. In the years since, Feal, Stewart, and his team have championed the PACT Act for veterans exposed to burn pits and lent their expertise to other worthy causes.

John is now a “hired gun” for activists fighting to get legislation passed. With I Will Follow You Anywhere, he shares his hard-won wisdom and expert strategies that will enable underdogs everywhere to stand up against a mighty system.

Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2026

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John Feal

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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for Robert Alexander Johnson.
440 reviews18 followers
September 1, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Remembering What Came After 9/11

I received I’ll Follow You Anywhere by John Feal through NetGalley, and the timing of reading it felt especially meaningful with the twenty-fifth anniversary of September 11 approaching. I knew something about the struggles faced by first responders, but this book gave me a much fuller understanding of what happened after the attacks. Feal focuses not only on illness and loss, but also on the years of advocacy required to secure recognition, healthcare, and support for people whose suffering continued long after the public attention moved elsewhere.

The strongest part of the book for me was its personal nature. Feal brings readers into the lives of responders and veterans in a way that makes the larger political and medical issues feel immediate rather than abstract. His anger is evident, but it comes from passion and persistence, and I appreciated how clearly the book functions as a record of activism. I was particularly struck by the resistance these individuals faced from Congress and by how often people who had already sacrificed so much were forced to fight again for basic acknowledgment and care. The role of advocates such as Jon Stewart also stood out as an important part of that larger struggle.

I also learned a great deal from the sections dealing with veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. I had heard about unexplained illnesses among veterans and remembered discussions surrounding Gulf War exposure, but I had not fully understood the connection between later illnesses and burn pits. That expanded the book beyond the immediate legacy of 9/11 and helped me see a broader pattern involving sacrifice, government responsibility, neglect, and advocacy. There is some repetition, although it did not bother me much. If anything, I wished the book had included even more perspectives from people outside the most visible groups, such as school communities, nearby workers, doctors, nurses, and others who also lived with the consequences.

I’ll Follow You Anywhere will likely appeal most to readers interested in 9/11, first responders, veterans, and the long-term effects of public service. What stayed with me most was how much of the suffering continued after the cameras were gone and the country had moved on. Remembering September 11 should also mean remembering the people who became sick years later and had to keep fighting for the care they were promised.

Thank you to NetGalley, author John Feal, and Brilliance Publishing/Audio for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
"IWillFollowYouAnywhere #NetGalley
Profile Image for Samantha.
Author 24 books432 followers
September 11, 2026
9/11 occurred almost exactly half my life ago. The last 25 years have included more fear and division than I remember from my first 25 - or maybe I was just young and not paying attention. I selected this book because it is important to me to learn a little more about 9/11 each year. Visiting the 9/11 Ground Zero Museum was one of the most moving experiences I have had. This book promised a unique perspective, that of first responders after they began sickening from the toxic dust at the site.

Maybe I should have read the description more closely. I had hoped to read some personal stories about the responders' experiences during and after the attack and how their health situations were handled. This book does include some of that, and the tragic stories of heroes dying of cancer or because they couldn't breathe are difficult to read without wondering how we, as a nation, could have left them behind and forgotten about them.

That being said, this book is much more about John Feal and his activism. I knew nothing about Feal before reading this, and I was unprepared for his arrogant bully style presentation. It was a reminder that not all heroes are strong but silent types. Even as I admired Feal's work, it was hard to listen to his name-calling and broad assumptions that anyone who didn't agree with him and his processes at each step was an idiot (that is far kinder than any language he uses for his opposition). Of course, much of his anger is understandable, and the people he stands up for certainly appreciate his tenacity, but he can also be a challenge to listen to.

I did gain some important knowledge and perspective from this book, but I would caution prospective readers that this is as much a political activist's to-do manual as it is a 9/11 memoir.

Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook. Opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rachel Shin.
8 reviews1 follower
September 16, 2026
I work for the World Trade Center Health Program. John Feal spoke at a panel for my office prior to the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Before the panel even finished, I purchased this book because his anger, passion, and rawness when speaking of the program were so compelling. This book has renewed my pride in being involved in this program tenfold. I will never forget the first time I called a responder, just for their wife to answer instead because the responder had passed away. The people who fought/fight to establish this program know that shock, devastation, and grief so much more than I could ever, yet they continue to involve themselves, fight for their fellow men and women, and care no matter how heavy it got/gets. Thank you to all the survivors, responders, family members, and volunteers who worked so tirelessly to get this program on steady feet. I will do my part to make sure your sacrifices are not wasted!!
Profile Image for Robyn.
217 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 28, 2026
5 HUGE Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is one of those books that I genuinely feel every American should be required to read.

I Will Follow You Anywhere: The True Story of 9/11 Responders Who Took on Congress is a powerful story about hope, resilience, courage, and what it means to fight for what is right—even when the fight is incredibly difficult.

Part memoir and part call to action, this book shines a much-needed light on the men and women who responded to 9/11 and the devastating health consequences many of them experienced because of their exposure. Their stories are heartbreaking, inspiring, and incredibly important.

How often do we really think about the people who were there that day and the years of health struggles they would face afterward? These were people who answered the call to help their fellow Americans during one of our nation’s most devastating moments. Their sacrifice didn’t end that day. For many, another battle was just beginning.

The story then brings that fight for recognition, healthcare, and justice to veterans affected by toxic exposures, showing how the lessons learned from the 9/11 responders’ battle could help others facing similar injustices. It was incredibly moving to see these experiences become a source of hope and encouragement for others to find their voices and fight for what is right.

This book left me feeling heartbroken, frustrated, hopeful, and inspired. It is educational and informative while still keeping the very human stories at its heart. I found myself completely invested in their journey and their fight for justice.

The writing was excellent, and the narrator did an amazing job bringing the emotion and importance of these stories to life.

A powerful reminder that one person can make a difference and that sometimes hope means having the courage to keep fighting for what is right.

5 HUGE stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of the audiobook in exchange for my review. #NeverForget 🇺🇸
Profile Image for Brenna.
103 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2026
I Would Follow You Anywhere by John Feal ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book offers a fascinating and sobering look not only at the people who were directly involved in the aftermath of 9/11, but at the months, years, and even decades they have spent dealing with the devastating health consequences—particularly the respiratory illnesses and cancers linked to inhaling the dust from the rubble.

After being injured while working at Ground Zero, John Feal became determined to take action, recognizing how many of these people had been ignored, lied to, demeaned, and forgotten by the very institutions that proudly proclaim #NeverForget. His unique personality, relentless determination, and willingness to fight for others set in motion decades of lobbying and advocacy to ensure that those affected by 9/11 received the care and compensation they deserved.

I greatly appreciated the immense effort that went into this work. It required intelligence, grit, research, creativity, and an incredible amount of perseverance. More than anything, I came away with a much deeper appreciation for the people who were boots-on-the-ground after 9/11—and for the everyday workers who put themselves in harm’s way without knowing when tragedy might strike.

I listened to the audiobook, and with a single narrator portraying so many different people and accounts, I occasionally found it difficult to keep track of who was speaking. I suspect this may be easier to follow in print. I’ll also warn that the language is not for the faint of heart; there are plenty of F-bombs. 😬 But the message was important enough that I was able to overlook that.

Overall, a powerful four-star read that left me with a greater appreciation for the people who showed up when they were needed most—and for the long, often unseen fight that came afterward.

Thank you, Net Galley, for providing me with a free audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,336 reviews3 followers
September 7, 2026
For some, 9/11 is an event definitely will not be forgotten - you remember where you where when the first plane hit the towers - a lot like the strike on Pearl Harbor for our grandparents generation and the assassination of JKF or MLK Jr or even the death of Elvis or John Lennon was for our parents generation. This book is a dive into the work after the plane hit to the rescue and eventually the recovery effort that took place at Ground Zero from a First Responder's or construction worker's POV and then what happened to them afterwards - since the focus turned from Ground Zero and the heroic efforts that were taking place there to the War on Terror. The hard work from those dedicated individuals became a second thought by many as proven by those in government afterwards when they spent countless hours fighting for relief money by many who used the phrase 'We Will Never Forget' as a slogan to advance their campaign or status only to indeed forget when it mattered to those hard workers - especially when they were suffering from the side effects of their work - both mentally and physically.

This book is heartbreaking and raw with the testimonials. It is an honest read that will wring one out emotionally. It shows the hard work of activism and that it does pay to keep on in the end. I loved that it the reader advise on activism - even after everything that these workers went through.

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to others. It was not what I was expecting when I chose to read it but am not disappointed in what I read in the end.
Profile Image for Alexander.
188 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2026
A big thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the early copy.

Medium: Audiobook

My thoughts: Before I get into the details of my thoughts, I need to say that I am coming to this as a total outsider. I am not American and I was too young to remember the horror of 9/11 as it happened. For some reason I was expecting to see more stories of the day of the attack. Don't get me wrong, this is absolutely not a bad thing. I had no idea about what happened to the first responders and survivors after that day. I had assumed that most if not all of them had severe PTSD but I never considered the physical illnesses that may have arisen. It's definitely one of those things that seems obvious in hindsight, but I would have never thought about it independently. It's truly horrendous to think about what people have to go through for basic recognition and help from the people and the government they were trying to help. I'm very glad I read about this and that I now understand something new about this complicated and unfair world.
I liked the fact that part of the book was giving advice to people who would like to get into activism. It was an interesting part of this book but I have to admit that it wasn't nearly as well done as the rest of it. The steps provided by the authors seem to be: do something and don't overdo it. Even though this part of the book wasn't for me, it didn't take away from the importance of it or how interesting it all was to me.
Profile Image for Christine.
146 reviews
September 8, 2026
Helpers

Speaking frankly, I only know John from social media where you know if you’re his “friend” or if he thinks you’re someone trying to get under his skin. Don’t try that because you can’t. He’s resilient. He’s amazing, and he’s been through more than many of us would ever be strong enough to withstand. I’ve been looking forward to reading his/others stories; however, I wasn’t prepared for them. My suggestion, find a quiet space to read this. Turn off any/all distractions. Mute your phone. Then learn to breathe through John’s and other’s stories. You will walk away numb. You will walk away with a huge appreciation for these beautiful people including Jon Stewart who became one of the many helpers. I believe if not for them, well, I don’t want to think about a world without them.
Profile Image for Ellen Ross.
721 reviews92 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 2, 2026
I have been eagerly anticipating this book and it did not disappoint. It gives a voice to the people who worked so hard behind the scenes as activists and voices to do the hard work of getting bills passed and continuing the 9/11 illness victims funding support. It was so fascinating to read how John pushed so hard and I love his advice on activism because that is what the world needs more of with so many things. It was also interesting to hear from several people that were involved in the recovery and aftermath and what struggles they still have today. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Joan.
1,217 reviews8 followers
October 1, 2026
This is the true story of Feal who worked at Ground Zero until he was injured and the fight that he, many other responders some who were dying and comedian Jon Stewart took on against lawmakers to get the 9/11 Compensation Fund and healthcare passed. Feal and the others were relentless in their fight before the bill was finally passed. More first responders and others have since died from 9/11 toxic smoke that they were told was safe than died on that horrific day from cancer and other health issues. Now Feal, Stewart and his team are championing the PACT Act for veterans exposed to burn pits and other worthy causes. This is a must read for history buffs.
Profile Image for Lisa Davidson.
2,045 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 28, 2026
These stories are so powerful. I knew some of the effects but these stories really make it hit home. Sometimes I had to take a break, especially during parts summing up some of the events. But this book is how individuals were affected and how they learned that they were not given the care deserved after being heroes. It's wild to think that responders were told that breathing the toxic air during recovery was safe. Thanks to NetGalley I got to listen to the audiobook and the narration made it feel personal
Profile Image for Kelli.
125 reviews3 followers
August 28, 2026
I have ready many books of different accounts of those directly impacted by 9/11. This book is unlike any others. It is more raw and unfiltered. It follows the long road to recovery for so many. The people in this book are hero's beyond measure for their tireless efforts to protect those who protect us. This is a must read for anyone who doesn't understand the continued trials and stumbling blocks these heroes continue to face today.
Profile Image for Lynn Davidson.
116 reviews2 followers
September 14, 2026
This book should be required reading for everybody. John Feal has moved a mountain to get funding for 9/11 survivors who have multiple health issues due to their exposure to toxins. Some of the stories will break your heart–they should. You will find yourself angry at Mitch McConnell-you should.
Profile Image for Frankie_Nicole.
344 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2026
ALC provided by NetGalley

5/5⭐️

If I find a topic I'm interested in, I want to know all I can about the topic. As a 9-year-old kid who watched 9/11 happen from a TV screen sitting in a 4th grade classroom. 9/11, specifically the stories of those impacted by the attack,  has always been a topic in history that's interested me. I learned SO much new information from I Will Follow You Anywhere. 


Some of my all-time favourite books are non-fiction books. However, with that being said it is very easy for a non-fiction book to read as simply an account of an event that's happened or information on a specific topic. When this happens, it's VERY easy for the reader to get lost in the minutiae of the subject and become board. 

This is not that. John Feal and Charles Daly did a wonderful job with I Will Follow You Anywhere. I thought it was brilliant to breakup John's story with testimonies from 9/11 and advice for those wanting to get into advocacy. 

Jeff Bottoms did a great job narrating this book!

NetGally provided me with an advanced listener copy of this book. However, I will be buying a physical copy of this book when it's released in September.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews