Tuesday, May 5, 2009

A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah


The horror of Ishmael's situation and the trials he faces as a young teenage would certainly appeal to a vast audience. I will admit, though, that it takes a strong stomach to read through his autobiography. I think that teens might have a hard time relating to the situations in which Ishmael is placed, but they would certainly be interested in following his unique story.

This book, like many others, focuses on the need for Ishamel to survive on his own and grow up at a young age. It also highlights the need for teens to have a support group of friends who can help them with the trials they face.

The characters are definitely believable--it is an autobiography. Ishmael does a nice job of depicting his emotions and lending crediblity to the situations and experiences which he faces.

I think that if you just told the teens about the premise of the novel--its about a young boy driven from his home who is forced to become a boy soldier in the Sierra Leon war--many young adults would be interested in finding out more about it.

4Q, 4P, J,S,A/YA

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