“This gut-wrenching, poetic memoir reminds us that no life story can be reduced to the word ‘refugee.'” (New York Times Book Review)
“A critical piece of literature, contributing to the larger refugee narrative in a way that is complex and nuanced.” (School Library Journal)
This profoundly moving memoir is the remarkable and inspiring true story of Sandra Uwiringiyimana, a girl from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who tells the tale of how she survived a massacre, immigrated to America, and overcame her trauma through art and activism.
Sandra was just 10 years old when she found herself with a gun pointed at her head. She had watched as rebels gunned down her mother and six-year-old sister in a refugee camp. Remarkably, the rebel didn’t pull the trigger, and Sandra escaped.
Thus began a new life for her and her surviving family members. With no home and no money, they struggled to stay alive. Eventually, through a United Nations refugee program, they moved to America, only to face yet another ethnic disconnect. Sandra may have crossed an ocean, but there was now a much wider divide she had to overcome. And it started with middle school in New York.
In this memoir, Sandra tells the story of her survival, of finding her place in a new country, of her hope for the future, and how she found a way to give voice to her people.
I would have done more today. I am so sorry. It’s just been a hard day.
I cant wait to read this
I want to find this book.
Hello First Time Commenter Here! Miss Tamara I just wanted to say as much as I LOVE reading the show updates I am OVER THE MOON with the BHM posts. I have been sharing them with my 5th/6th grade class – even remotely they are loving the cultural learning experience. Cheers and kudos to you!
Oh wow. This was nice to hear!
I will look for this book! Tks TT
Hope you feel better soon
I so love these posts. Thank you so much for keeping up with them, especially since you’ve been having such a crappy time right now. Know that your work is appreciated by many.
Senator Hiram Revels of Mississippi
Senator Hiram Revels of Mississippi was the first African American member of the United States Senate. He took the oath of office on February 25, 1870. Senator Hiram Revels of Mississippi was the first African American member of the United States Senate. He took the oath of office on February 25, 1870.Feb 25, 2020.
How much further along if u picked a different side. Sld not ne ok 4 a blk man to have to leave his family 4 benefits while these frauds scream about uniting families on the border smh
Thanks for this, TT, especially after having had an upsetting day. Working in a community college, I’ve been gifted over the years to work with hundreds of our immigrant students. Knowing their stories, no matter what and no matter when they have ever needed something, I will move heaven and earth (and sometimes fight the system) to make it happen for them, because they are so deserving (I hate to say it, but in general, these students are so much more deserving than some students born here, who are in college, but really don’t want to be there and do not really value the education they are receiving). Our immigrant students are usually so appreciative of the opportunity of receiving an education, and a chance in life. I am in awe of human beings who can survive things that most in our country could not dream of having to survive.
I’m so glad we have educators like you and Tamara! Thank you for your efforts I’m sure they are much appreciated!
I’m loving all these posts this month and have learned so much! Thank you TT and commentors!
I am sharing these on my social media. Thank you so very much??
What an amazing woman