Kristen Hansen Hansen itibaren Sainte-Euphémie, QC G0R, Kanada
I enjoyed this book. I never paid much attention to the various struggles going on in Liberia and this provided a graphic picture. It also gave unique insight into the creation of Liberia as an American "colony". The book touches many issues that could generate interesting discussions: * Why would blacks who knew first-hand the problems with slavery and class institute those same structures in their new country? * Why do people think they should go into other people's countries/lands and take them over? What gives them the right? * Why did Africans sell each other into slavery? * Why do many African "liberations" lead to worse opportunities for the local people? * What causes the crazed behavior that takes place during war? * How could people survive for 13/15 years in a war-torn environment and still maintain their dignity? * Why do people in 'privileged' situations not realize how the things they do are offensive to those of 'lower' classes? I have an infant son and I cannot imagine anyone taking him away from me to make him into a child soldier. But I can definitely imagine fighting anyone or enduring anything to protect him. I read reviews of this book that faulted Ms. Cooper for not focusing enough on the "issues" - I don't think her point was to address any of these issues or provide solutions. It's a memoir - she chose not to analyze or rationalize; she just told her story, honestly, and I appreciated that.
the good: it's funny, sarcastic, laymen's language and a very easy read. the bad: if you aren't a vegan and don't plan on becoming one, this book isn't for you. if you're not an anorexic and don't plan on becoming one, this book isn't for you. i imagine that the moral of this story only reaches a small amount of americans. also, i haven't been able to thoroughly enjoy a cup of coffee since this read.
I read this in 10th grade. The older I became the more and more that this book began to resemble Spinal Tap. All I'm saying is the Shark Story.
the girl was raped and killed and your listening to her story from beyond the grave. good chick book.
A little preachy but great.
If you like Kathy Griffin and her particular brand of humor you will love this book. Honest, candid and irreverant...just as you would expect.