A beautifully written book that does not try to be beautifully written or grand in its approach to such a harrowing and traumatic subject. Ishmael Beah writes with an honesty that translates memories of his life, both tragedy and happiness, into these wonderfully vivid tableaux. There were times when I had to put down the book to try and digest the events that happened to him at such a young age, there were times when I had to inconspicuously stem the tears waiting to fall down my face as I read the book in public. This is a story that needs to be told. I admire that Ishmael does not try to make grand overarching statements about life or politics, or paint himself as a tragic hero. His honesty is refreshing and challenging and really opens your eyes to the world of child soldiers and the wars that they fight. One of my favourites.