Giving life to the distressingly familiar images from the media, journalist and writer Samar Yazbek takes us to the heart of the Syria of the headlines and soundbites. Syrian herself, she was forced to flee in 2011, but recounts in this story her three trips back to her homeland in 2012-13 to help set up women's groups.
Chronicling the passage of the civil war from its peaceful uprising for a secular democracy to the hijacking of the war by foreign fighters, this harrowing account of the day-to-day suffering of the Syrian people is distinguished by allowing all sides to speak for themselves.
This is an important story of our time from the pen of a gifted narrator.
Comments from BDS Reviewers:
"Through the book we learn about the great religious differences, but also about foreigners such ISIS members and others who have hijacked the war."
"Although distressing, this book educates us about the very complex situation in Syria."
"For me this was a great book but others may not want to read about the conflict."
"A must-read for everyone including people who may not understand the consequences of their actions if they get involved with extremist groups."
"A graphic account of ordinary people living in the most appalling conditions."
"The book reminds us that the people who suffer most in war are the innocent bystanders, the women and children, but it also relates how ordinary young men end up as guerrilla fighters because other options have failed."
"I feel it is a must read for everyone. We need to understand what is going on in this part of the world and why there is an influx of refugees into Europe."
Categories: Non fiction, War theme, Contemporary, Culture/Ethnic/Racial, Grief/loss, Human Rights, Journalistic reporting/media, Morals/Ethics, Political, Religion, Social commentary/perspectives, Tragedy/disaster, Middle East, Syria, 2018 Titles
