Shannon Suggests - A LONG WAY GONE: MEMOIRS OF A BOY SOLDIER by Ishmael Beah

A LONG WAY GONE has been called “one of the most important war stories of our generation.” This memoir is beautifully written about an unforgettable war and the children who were forced to fight it. Now Twenty-six year-old Ishmael Beah describes the unimaginable in calm, accessible language.

The first hand account of the plight of a young boy in Sierra Leone forced to wield an AK-47 as a drugged-up child soldier after rebels attacked his family and village is haunting. At the age of twelve, he fled the attacking rebels and wandered the African bush that had been rendered unrecognizable by

violence. Later, enlisted by the Sierra Leonean army, Beah, gentle at heart, discovered that he was capable of horrific deeds. Once rescued and sent to a UNICEF rehabilitation center, he struggled to reestablish his life as a civilian and to regain his humanity. This chronicle is, in the end, an inspirational story of redemption and hope.

On a personal note, this was one of the most powerful books I've ever read. Beah is only a few years my senior. While I was on the play ground, he was in a war-zone. His story and struggle has helped me appreciate all the advantages I have taken for granted. This is, in my opinion, a must read! Click on the title at the top to request a copy now.

...and THE FALL by Norah Jones

One of my favorites, Norah Jones, released a new album, THE  FALL. She moves slightly out of her comfort zone with a new, less-jazzy, more guitar filled sound...but I LIKE IT! Click on the above title to request a copy.