Left to Tell- Worthwhile and Moving

To put it simply, Left to Tell is just an awesome book to read. I guarantee it will touch your heart. Author Imaculee Ilibagiza tells her story that brings you to know what the Rwandan genocide in 1994 really was. She successfully introduces the characters of her life, her family, her friends and loved ones, and instills a love of them in you. Her writing is so real. Through the happy moments, the moments of realization and hope, and through the heart-wrenching pain and coping, you will follow this woman of great faith and her struggles page after page.


What makes this book interesting? At least for me, I did not have much prior knowledge to the Rwandan genocide. I definitely didn’t know it happened less than 20 years ago! The creditable information presented along with personal experiences of the characters egg the reader on.

This compelling story is not to be taken lightly. Be forewarned that it’s definitely a tear-jerker. I happily recommend it to all those of a level of maturity that will use it for good. The experiences of this woman are too precious to be taken lightly. Have a good heart. Pick up this book and give it a read. You will find the same respect and love in your heart as I did.

The Lost Boys of Sudan

photograph by Sebastiao Salgado
Why are the boys here?  The government and others tried to force young boys to fight in the civil war that was raging on in the southern Sudan (from 1983 to 2005). Because of this, boys are sent away from their families at a young age to hide. They can frequently be seen travelling in groups together. Refugees to another place.

Many young children lost their families due to the war. The "Lost Boys of Sudan" is the name given to the more than 27,000 boys of a single ethnic group who were displaced or orphaned during that civil war. So many lives and future lives effected.

This photo is very emotional.The lightning gives it a sort of eerie feel until you look at the faces of these young boys and the pain behind each expression. Salgado tells us that this was a common sight while he was traveling. Quite a sight to see.


Salgado, Sebastião. Photograph. "Migrations: Humanity in Transition." 4 February 2010.
---. Pamphlet. "Southern Sudan, A Population in Distress." Migrations: Humanity In Transition. New York, Aperture. 2000. 15-16. Print.

"The Lost Boys of Sudan". Wikipedia. 4 Feb 2010