Scan barcode
annebennett1957's review against another edition
4.0
An account of one woman's story of survival during the Rwanda genocide where neighbors were killing neighbors. Immaculee was supported through a strong faith, powerful prayers, and dreams for the future. She lost nearly her whole family to this genocide.
tamaralgage1's review against another edition
5.0
I have read many horrific stories over the years. This book has left me equally shocked and speechless. As I try to gather my thoughts, let me share some in no particular order. What incredible faith Immaculee has in her heart! There is the faith to know that god has a plan for her and a willingness to embrace the path. Whether it be death or something long term. I was also touched with how she shared the thoughts of fear, hatred and anger as the work of the devil. To respond with more prayer and thankfulness to god.
Next I have read many stories of two or three groups throughout the world that have battled each other over hundreds of years. In these stories, I wonder how do these people ever find peace. Someone always seems to be on top and ripe with opportunity to inflict revenge on past injuries. Far too often, this revenge is on generations past when the oppression was orginally inflicted. Immaculle's story demonstrates the need for forgives so that she can enjoy her life without the burden of anger and hatred. It is a good story that many of us should embrace and share if we call our self Chrisitian
Next I have read many stories of two or three groups throughout the world that have battled each other over hundreds of years. In these stories, I wonder how do these people ever find peace. Someone always seems to be on top and ripe with opportunity to inflict revenge on past injuries. Far too often, this revenge is on generations past when the oppression was orginally inflicted. Immaculle's story demonstrates the need for forgives so that she can enjoy her life without the burden of anger and hatred. It is a good story that many of us should embrace and share if we call our self Chrisitian
jlworley's review against another edition
4.0
4.5 stars.
After watching Hotel Rwanda a few years ago, I realized how little I knew about these atrocities that happened in my lifetime. (Side note: extremely good but disturbing movie.) I appreciated this author's bravery in telling her story and even in forgiving those that murdered her family. Told without the melodrama that could easily accompany such a story, she shares how her faith got her through. I believe the matter-of-fact way she tells it all allows for even those who do not share her faith to appreciate all she has overcome.
After watching Hotel Rwanda a few years ago, I realized how little I knew about these atrocities that happened in my lifetime. (Side note: extremely good but disturbing movie.) I appreciated this author's bravery in telling her story and even in forgiving those that murdered her family. Told without the melodrama that could easily accompany such a story, she shares how her faith got her through. I believe the matter-of-fact way she tells it all allows for even those who do not share her faith to appreciate all she has overcome.
danielle_dore's review against another edition
5.0
This was hard to read, but at the same time, hard to put down. The Rwandan Holocaust is something I knew nothing about, and I was shocked that it happened so recently and like the Holocaust of WWII, even allowed to take place. I felt so frustrated that nothing prevented this travesty from happening. Immaculee loses everyone she loves to murder. She huddles in a tiny bathroom with other women and prays for relief, but also for the ability to forgive. Yes, forgiveness is the main message of this incredible story. When I turned the last page I felt truly inspired, because it made sense. Although others might not deserve forgiveness, it is the best thing we can give ourselves. Staying angry will not change anything, and the ones who wrong you do not care if you are angry or not. Forgiveness can give you freedom. That is why her survival story is not just about her physical survival, it is about her mental survival as well. I am sure most people who went through what she did and came out alive did not fare so well in life as she did. Her mental attitude saved her from a lifetime of hurt, anger, and despair. If you can handle bearing witness to the atrocities that take place in this story, I highly recommend reading it for two reasons. One, to educate yourself about the Rwandan Holocaust if like me, you knew nothing about it. Two, to experience the power of forgiveness through Imacullee's eyes. You will never forget it.
alifromkc1907's review against another edition
4.0
Gut Instinct Rating: 4
Engagement of Book: 4
Accomplishment/Delivery of Book: 5
Interest/Entertainment Level: 5
Audiobook Narration: 4.25
Overall: 4.45
Engagement of Book: 4
Accomplishment/Delivery of Book: 5
Interest/Entertainment Level: 5
Audiobook Narration: 4.25
Overall: 4.45
bethanyacosta's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
tlchand's review against another edition
5.0
This is an absolutely gut-wrenching telling of the genocide that occurred in Rowanda in the mid-90's. It is challenging for me to get my head wrapped around the idea that this occurred just over 15 years ago and not centuries. Immaculee credits much of her survival to prayer and God. No matter your beliefs on religion or whether you feel that a higher power granted Immaculee safety, it is uplifting to hear someone's tale of how their faith was enough to sustain their mental stability throughout a horrific event.
acperkins67's review against another edition
5.0
Everyone should read this book. It is so inspiring and will give hope to anyone who has experience any sort of difficulty in their life.