This novel is more gut-wrenching than I expected, and I have taught Karen refugees and other Burmese immigrants. I came into the book with some idea of the Karen experience, but little knowledge of Burmese history as a whole. I liked the character development although I didn't understand the directions some of the characters took. I hope that the saddest parts weren't Charmaine Craig's true family history. My heart broke again and again for Khin, Benny, and their family members as they tried to navigate and survive under such cruel circumstances. Khin and Benny's misunderstandings and inability to forgive each other for their weaknesses, failures, and need to seek comfort outside their marriage in impossible times was so tragic. When I see my former students post family photos at church, fishing, playing music, and other happy, relaxing times in the United States, I will be more grateful than ever that they have those opportunities. Four stars with five buckets of tears. I wish that we could see justice and peace for the minorities of Burma. Yet is seems no closer. The betrayal by the British and American governments is absolutely infuriating.