Such an important book. This book should be a part of school curriculum. In a World where the media attempts to continuously dehumanise refugees, this book helps to completely change the narrative, to show the reality. Each and every story in this book is heartbreaking. It reminds me how lucky we are to have the life we have. Not growing up in a war zone, not fearing for the lives of our loved or, having access to education, healthcare, food etc. It also taught me so much about things I didn’t know as much about like what is happening in Venezuela and Myanmar. I only wish some of the stories went into more depth because I became so invested in their lives I just wanted to know more.
I actually listened to the audiobook, narrated by the author. However, that format is not (at the time at least) available on Goodreads. This was a book that opened my eyes. And I thought they were pretty open. The stories of the individuals are heartbreaking, as well as uplifting in some ways. The knowledge and information that the author passes on was incredible. There are so many things I did not know about refugees. This is a book that many should read, just to learn. I can't imagine what it would take for me to grab supplies and make a 1000+ mile journey on foot, across multiple countries. Thankfully, I don't need to know that experience. How fortunate for myself, and others like me, that we have that luxury of privilege.
This is a truly a book that everyone should read or listen to. Jaz brings us the stories of refugees from all over the world, brining a human face to many of the stories of political unrest we hear, and hammering home the need for empathy for all people, especially those in crisis.
I was so impressed by the courage and tenacity of each and every individual who shared their story, recounting the danger of getting to a country where they could attempt to seek asylum, the purely dehumanizing experience of doing so, the limbo and agony of waiting, and then the ability to learn new languages, cultures, obtain degrees and integrate into a new society.
I randomly picked this book up on the new book shelf at the library. It blew my mind. Such important stories. The perspective on immigration needs to change globally, and hearing these stories is an important step in changing human perception.