Books : What Is the What (Vintage)

Rating: - I'm changed
I almost did not pick this book off the shelf to purchase it. Because I did, I am now changed.

The spirit and life of this story has opened my eyes and now it's breath lives within the fibers of my being.

The language and perspective is like none other I have ever read.
If you pick up this book, you will never put it down. It will be carried in your heart the rest of the days of your life.

Thank you, Dave, Thank you Valentino.

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Rating: - An excellent depiction of the challenges of the "lost boys" of Sudan
No doubt, this author captured the true hardships facing the "lost boys" of Sudan. The challenges facing the young men appeared insurmountable. For those of us living in industrialized countries, it is difficult to imagine or understand the daily lives of these brave young people. Although the story deals with some difficult subject matter, the author successfully incorporates humor and gentleness into the narrative and dialogue.

In addition to the details surrounding the lives of these Sudanese boys, I would have liked to have read more on the process for obtaining refugee status in the U.S. Legal immigrant entry into the U.S. is generally a long, complex and arduous process, one filled with paperwork, evidence, frustrations, fear, anxiety, separation and promise. I realize it was not the author's intent to explore this side of the story. However, the complexities surrounding the process might prove surprising to some readers.

An overall excellent read! I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a real life glimpse of living and dreaming as a "lost boy" of Sudan. I would be interested in learning more about Valentino Achak Deng's adjustments and accomplishments since the writing of this book. I do hope that he enjoys a peaceful, productive and rewarding life in the U.S.

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Rating: - Eye Opening and Powerful
This book touched me more than any other book that I have read. There were moments that had me laughing at loud and others that had me on the verge of tears. It is a powerul story on the strength of the human spirit to overcome any obstacles. This book will touch your heart and open your eyes to the struggles of many in the war-torn world around us.

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Rating: - Superb
I needed a book for my vacation this past week, and I picked the perfect one. This book is perfectly written by Dave Eggers and brings the story of Valentino Achak Deng - one of the "Lost Boys of Sudan." From seven years old until the recent past you follow his journey from his war torn country to his life in a refugee camp, ultimately ending with his relocation into Atlanta.

This book blew me away. The first person account of what it was like for these boys who avoided armies, lions, famine and more to make it across the border of Sudan to Ethiopia and then eventually to Kenya. This book opened my eyes up in many ways to the plight of refugees around the world. Fantastic book. JVD

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Rating: - what is the what
Excellent book. It gripped my attention as it described the life of this boy - one of the Lost Boys of Sudan.