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Nice Leng’ete’s story is amazing but the book felt very surface level. What she lived through as a child and what she has accomplished since then feels like it should be a deeper, more intense read. 
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yoshisreads's review

5.0
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Auto bio of nice ling’ete, a Maasai woman who escaped FGM and went on to protect another 17,000 girls from that fate.

Born to second wife and loving politician father she had a happy upbringing with slightly more indulgence with her fathers attention than the average child (children are for women and most masaai men will ignore them). Saw a cutting at age 7(?), little brother died, parents died in quick succession when she was 7. Went to live with fathers brother and all the inheritance was spent on other things than her and her sister. Ran away from cutting (sister didn’t the second time), went to school, worked with ngo and with the elders of her tribe to change traditions of cutting and of women’s status. Opens “a nice place” where girls escaping FGM can find refuge and marketable skills.

Remarkable woman
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"The Girls in the Wild Fig Tree: How I Fought to Save Myself, My Sister, and Thousands of Girls Worldwide" is a truly impactful read that, despite tackling an incredibly difficult and sensitive subject, manages to be easy read. The author expertly navigates the challenging realities of female genital mutilation (FGM), presenting a narrative that is both heartbreaking but inspiring.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in the author's meticulous and empathetic explanation of Maasai culture. Nice does an excellent job of illustrating how deeply rooted traditions and societal norms have allowed the prevalence and practice of FGM to persist for so long, even into modern times. This cultural context is crucial, providing a deeper understanding of the complex factors that contribute to this ongoing human rights crisis.

While the subject matter is undeniably heavy, the author's narrative style makes the book a surprisingly easy read. This is a testament to their ability to convey profound hardship with clarity and a compelling voice, drawing the reader in without overwhelming them. 

This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the ongoing fight against FGM, the power of individual courage, and the importance of cultural understanding in addressing global injustices. It sheds light on a vital issue with grace and determination, leaving a lasting impression on its readers.

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hazzajazza's review

4.0

Really good, but a bit repetitive and rushes through the sections of her convincing people to move on from FGM. 
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