December 13, 2007
Posted by Ryan Graves
A Long Way Gone – Ismael Beah
Reading is the only way to get enough experience in one life time. A few months ago I read A Long Way Gone – memoirs of a boy soldier by Ismael Beah and it is one of those books that really makes you thankful for the life you’ve had. Whether you were raised in upper, middle, or lower class you probably had a better childhood that Ismael. He retells the stories of being separated from his family at the age of 9 and fleeing the attacks of rebels at the age of 12. He fought for the government army and describes the experiences of being totally drugged and committing acts of violence that he never thought possible. Eventually he was set free to a UNICEF rehab center and was put into contact with his uncle’s family. He describes the process of re-entering society and trying to deal with the horrible memories of war.
A Long Way Gone is a story of hope and encouragement. Ismael overcomes huge challenges and shows the journey to hell and back. I highly recommend reading this book for a change of perspective on you upbringing. It will make you feel lucky.
