The Heart Must Break

by James Mawdsley

This is the compelling story of James Mawdsley, a 27 year old man from Lancashire who returned home to Britain at the end 2000 having endured 14 months of solitary confinement and torture in a Burmese prison. Sentenced to 17 years imprisonment for his protests against the brutal military regime of the junta, this was not Mawdsley's first time to be captured but his third trip to Burma in what was a well thought-out, determined exercise in his campaign to publicize human rights violation in a country terrorised by an illegal regime. Mawdsley describes how he came to leave university, and the promise of academic success, to pursue instead something more purposeful, charting with sensitivity, intelligence and humour, the experiences the lead him to Burma. He goes on to describe his fellow prisoners and his torturers with irony and a kind of sympathetic tenderness. Mawdsley rejects any claim of heroism or bravery and instead reflects on his motives, his ability to survive such isolation and terror - how he discovered a kind of spiritual solace and peace despite his terrifying situation - and what now lies ahead, both for himself, with his new freedom, and for the people of Burma.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Mrat Thein · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first half of this book is an incredible look into the world of ethnic liberation and self determination in Burma, unfortunately the second half is Mawdsley spouting self righteous ultra-christian rhetoric.

[Derek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mawdsley's story is one of personal sacrifice and sheer determination in speaking for the people of this beautiful land. It was heart wrenching to read about what he endured in his time in Insein and Kengtung. It is also salient to point out that the fact that he was a foreigner meant that he did not have to endure some of the brutalities inflicted on their own people. All the best to Burma.

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone who has a cause should read this book and gain inspiration from the amazing optimism of the man who wrote this book. A very moving, and passionate read - it had me in tears at some parts. Recommended!!!

[Sally McRogerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guy has a lot of guts and is one of my heroes! Goes to Burma to get arrested deliberately to highlight the oppressive regime - more than once! Some excellent quotes, too, as chapter headings.

[Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

very inspiring story....I applaud Mr. Maudsley for his courage and strong will to fight for Burma's freedom! And of course, for this wonderful piece of work!

5 stars!