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Mongol
"Exteremely interesting…emotionally engaging" (Stuart Kelly)
Uuganaa is a Mongol living in Britain, far from the world she grew up in: as a nomadic herder she lived in a yurt, eating marmot meat, distilling vodka from goat's yoghurt and learning about Comrade Lenin. When her new-born son Billy is diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome, she finds herself facing bigotry and taboo as well as heartbreak.
In this powerful memoir, Uuganaa skilfully interweaves the extraordinary story of her own childhood in Mongolia with the sadly short life of Billy, who becomes a symbol of union and disunion, cultures and complexity, stigma and superstition – and inspires Uuganaa to challenge prejudice. Mongol is the touching story of one woman's transformation from outsider to fearless champion of love, respect and tolerance. It's a moving tribute by a remarkable woman to her beloved baby son, testifying to his lasting impact on a sometimes imperfect world.
Uuganaa is a Mongol living in Britain, far from the world she grew up in: as a nomadic herder she lived in a yurt, eating marmot meat, distilling vodka from goat's yoghurt and learning about Comrade Lenin. When her new-born son Billy is diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome, she finds herself facing bigotry and taboo as well as heartbreak.
In this powerful memoir, Uuganaa skilfully interweaves the extraordinary story of her own childhood in Mongolia with the sadly short life of Billy, who becomes a symbol of union and disunion, cultures and complexity, stigma and superstition – and inspires Uuganaa to challenge prejudice. Mongol is the touching story of one woman's transformation from outsider to fearless champion of love, respect and tolerance. It's a moving tribute by a remarkable woman to her beloved baby son, testifying to his lasting impact on a sometimes imperfect world.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2013
6 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Uuganaa Ramsay
2 books13 followersUuganaa Ramsay was born in Mongolia and grew up in a yurt, living a nomadic life eating marmot meat and distilling vodka from yoghurt. After winning a place on a teacher-training course she came to the UK, and now lives in Scotland.
She wrote Mongol with the help of the Janetta Bowie Chalice Non-Fiction Book Award from the Scottish Association of Writers. Following Mongol's publication, Uuganaa made BBC Radio 4 documentary 'The Meaning of Mongol.'
She wrote Mongol with the help of the Janetta Bowie Chalice Non-Fiction Book Award from the Scottish Association of Writers. Following Mongol's publication, Uuganaa made BBC Radio 4 documentary 'The Meaning of Mongol.'
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 28, 2014
This memoir is fascinating and heartbreaking. Childhood memory of growing up in rural Mongolia is interwoven with the story of Billy, the author's son, who at birth was diagnosed with Down's syndrome. The story is touching, funny, cheeky, inspiring and at the same time filled with great sadness. Everyone should read this book.
April 3, 2014
I finished Uuganaa Ramsay's memoir 'Mongol' the night before last night. Uuganaa, who is Mongolian, and grew up in a 'ger' (yurt), is now in her mid-thirties, and lives in Scotland with her husband and their three children. Four years ago, she had a baby boy, Billy. Billy had Down's Syndrome and, tragically, because of heart complications, died at just three months old. In writing his story, and her own story, Uuganaa has turned her precious boy's short life - and her grief - into something beautiful.
She has become passionate about educating others about Down's. She's certainly in a unique position to comment on the misuse of the word 'mongol', historically used to describe people with Down's Syndrome. I learned that it was actually British doctor John Langdon Down - who had coined the term 'mongol' in 1860. Of course, conflating a disability with an ethnicity is both offensive and unhelpful. The word mongolism was officially dropped by WHO in 1965. I don't recall the word mongol ever being associated with my wee aunt who had Down's - we grew up together, she passed away in 2011, aged 50 - certainly not within our family. It's not uncommon, though, to hear people still using the word 'mong' pejoratively. I imagine it is heard in playgrounds. In 1970s/80s, when I was at school, 'spaz' was the word most likely to be used.
I enjoyed the honesty and simplicity of Uuganaa's prose: there's a certain clarity, I think, that comes with writing in a language that is not your native tongue. The final chapter made me cry. I don't often cry at books. And the early and middle chapters describing Billy are compelling and moving. I also enjoyed learning about Mongolia, gorgeous details like the pale blue paint behind the goats' horns to identify them as her family's herd. When we were kids, we would refer to somewhere very far away as being in Outer Mongolia, with little or no idea of where Mongolia actually is. This book is an education. The only yurt I have ever been in is the hallowed writers' yurt at the Edinburgh book festival, and it was fascinating to learn of actual lives lived in yurts, the daily routines. The strength of (extended) family bonds is very much highlighted.
'Mongol' is, as memoirs are, necessarily time-driven rather than plot-driven, and while I learned a lot about Mongolia, I felt there were some sections, where we perhaps get too many 'facts' and not much story. It can feel a *little* dry at times. However, halfway through, the narrative takes an unexpected turn and feels almost novelistic - I couldn't put the book down after this. And, as I said above, the final section, which deals with Billy's passing, made me cry. I read towards the inevitable event and I felt my throat tighten. I'm glad that Uuganaa and her husband had lovely hospital staff to support them through this dreadful time, though the image stays with me of an insensitive young doctor who came to Uuganaa's ward, earlier in the story, to see the 'floppy baby'.
I saw Uuganaa launch her book at a packed event a few weeks ago in Edinburgh. I was struck by her poise and grace when she read. I highly recommend her memoir, which is published by Scottish indie press Saraband. I'd love to read what she writes next.
She has become passionate about educating others about Down's. She's certainly in a unique position to comment on the misuse of the word 'mongol', historically used to describe people with Down's Syndrome. I learned that it was actually British doctor John Langdon Down - who had coined the term 'mongol' in 1860. Of course, conflating a disability with an ethnicity is both offensive and unhelpful. The word mongolism was officially dropped by WHO in 1965. I don't recall the word mongol ever being associated with my wee aunt who had Down's - we grew up together, she passed away in 2011, aged 50 - certainly not within our family. It's not uncommon, though, to hear people still using the word 'mong' pejoratively. I imagine it is heard in playgrounds. In 1970s/80s, when I was at school, 'spaz' was the word most likely to be used.
I enjoyed the honesty and simplicity of Uuganaa's prose: there's a certain clarity, I think, that comes with writing in a language that is not your native tongue. The final chapter made me cry. I don't often cry at books. And the early and middle chapters describing Billy are compelling and moving. I also enjoyed learning about Mongolia, gorgeous details like the pale blue paint behind the goats' horns to identify them as her family's herd. When we were kids, we would refer to somewhere very far away as being in Outer Mongolia, with little or no idea of where Mongolia actually is. This book is an education. The only yurt I have ever been in is the hallowed writers' yurt at the Edinburgh book festival, and it was fascinating to learn of actual lives lived in yurts, the daily routines. The strength of (extended) family bonds is very much highlighted.
'Mongol' is, as memoirs are, necessarily time-driven rather than plot-driven, and while I learned a lot about Mongolia, I felt there were some sections, where we perhaps get too many 'facts' and not much story. It can feel a *little* dry at times. However, halfway through, the narrative takes an unexpected turn and feels almost novelistic - I couldn't put the book down after this. And, as I said above, the final section, which deals with Billy's passing, made me cry. I read towards the inevitable event and I felt my throat tighten. I'm glad that Uuganaa and her husband had lovely hospital staff to support them through this dreadful time, though the image stays with me of an insensitive young doctor who came to Uuganaa's ward, earlier in the story, to see the 'floppy baby'.
I saw Uuganaa launch her book at a packed event a few weeks ago in Edinburgh. I was struck by her poise and grace when she read. I highly recommend her memoir, which is published by Scottish indie press Saraband. I'd love to read what she writes next.
July 2, 2020
Mummy hopes that one day the Mongolian ethnicity will not be confused with any genetic condition. And that people with disabilities and their loved ones won’t have to hear this word being used as an insult. Good night, Billy. Mummy’s beautiful baby boy. Love you. XXX
May 22, 2024
Get the tissues ready!
April 24, 2021
I listened to Uuganaa speak at a webinar called 'words matter' she spoke from the heart and was a pleasure to listen to. For those reasons I purchased this book and was not disappointed. Learning about Mongolian culture was fascinating and reading about her experiences and what she went through losing Billy really touched me. A beautifully written and deeply moving memoir
December 2, 2014
I enjoyed this. For the most part, it's a straight autobiography of Uuganaa Ramsay's life growing up in outer Mongolia and the path that brought her to living in Scotland. It's bookended by the story of her life in Scotland, particularly the short life of her son Billy.
Ramsay's writing is clear and engaging, not prone to frills, and at times heartbreaking. It's a delight to read about her lifestyle and customs in Mongolia.
Having read a BBC article she wrote about the use of the word 'Mongol' and other terms derived from 'Mongolia' to describe people with disabilities like Down's Syndrome, I thought this would be a more political read. Though it isn't, it goes a long way to impart the humanity of the people if affects, on both sides of that coin.
Ramsay's writing is clear and engaging, not prone to frills, and at times heartbreaking. It's a delight to read about her lifestyle and customs in Mongolia.
Having read a BBC article she wrote about the use of the word 'Mongol' and other terms derived from 'Mongolia' to describe people with disabilities like Down's Syndrome, I thought this would be a more political read. Though it isn't, it goes a long way to impart the humanity of the people if affects, on both sides of that coin.
February 16, 2014
A beautiful sad and brave true story about Billy, who was born with Downs Syndrome to a mother from Mongolia. Uuganna Ramsay was shocked to discover that her newly born son had Downs Syndrome, but also that the term Mongol had at one time been used to describe someone with that condition. This story is a memoir of Billy's life but also takes us back to Uuganna's own upbringing in Mongolia, which is really interesting. A wonderful story not to be missed.
March 4, 2014
This is a interesting and powerful memoir. It charts the author's journey from her fascinating childhood in remote Mongolia to her life now in the West of Scotland. A journey which encompasses many ups and downs and cultural misunderstandings.
Poignantly, the author also lays bare the short life of her son Billy, born with Down's Syndrome and the attitudes and prejudices her family coped with. Her love for Billy shines through her words.
A wonderful, moving read.
Poignantly, the author also lays bare the short life of her son Billy, born with Down's Syndrome and the attitudes and prejudices her family coped with. Her love for Billy shines through her words.
A wonderful, moving read.
April 3, 2014
A brave book that blends love and family with heritage and culture. It is about the life of a woman who grew up as a true Mongolian, moved to the big city and then travelled a long way to the UK. It is a fascinating story about human resourcefulness, community and family.
It is also about a baby boy born with Downs Syndrome, about prejudice, pain, tremendous heartache and loss.
This book evokes many emotions and has a film-like quality about it too. Scenes are created with simple language, yet evoke strong imagery and feelings.
The unique combination of circumstances told in Mongol open the doors for many to tell stories, to realise that lives are complex and how we are with each other on a daily basis really matters.
I hope there is more to come from the author of Mongol.
It is also about a baby boy born with Downs Syndrome, about prejudice, pain, tremendous heartache and loss.
This book evokes many emotions and has a film-like quality about it too. Scenes are created with simple language, yet evoke strong imagery and feelings.
The unique combination of circumstances told in Mongol open the doors for many to tell stories, to realise that lives are complex and how we are with each other on a daily basis really matters.
I hope there is more to come from the author of Mongol.
December 10, 2013
A powerful memoir that took me by surprise. Not normally the kind of book I'd pick up, I found myself greatly engaged by Uuganaa's gentle but determined voice. She carries her difficult tale with grace, never coming across as bitter towards prejudices against herself and her son. You get to know Uuganaa and her family rather intimately in a short space of time and it sure does pack an emotional yet uplifting punch towards the end. Well worth a look for both insightful cultural exploration and for appreciating the potential struggles of motherhood and beyond.
May 3, 2015
A fascinating and simply - written account of growing up in a good family in provincial Mongolia, eventually moving to the UK with a British husband, and having a family there.
The contrast between the generosity and collegiality of life in Mongolia, where there was little wealth and support, and the coldness encountered in the UK society, is stark.
The contrast between the generosity and collegiality of life in Mongolia, where there was little wealth and support, and the coldness encountered in the UK society, is stark.
December 12, 2014
couldn't put this down....didn't leave the house until I'd finished it
January 5, 2018
One part autobiography, one part memoir, Mongol jumps back and forth between Ramsay's experience with her Down's Syndrome baby Billy and her childhood on the Mongolian steppe. There are a few details of life on the steppe relevant for my research, though largely they were things I'd encountered elsewhere. The contemporary sections are pretty raw, unpolished non-writer writing, and they didn't do much for me though I imagine if you had shared any of her experiences you might find them powerful. The cultural exchange sections had a bit more relevance to my life but were still just a bit boring. Not sure anyone would really find this all that valuable. Even the promised linguistic relationship (Mongol/Mongoloid) is just mentioned and never explored in any way.
June 8, 2019
Touching.
A very enjoyable read throughout following the journey of a young Mongolian born and raised girl as she makes her way through life.
An upbringing filled with many strange and wonderful experiences that eventually sees her settled in Scotland. A world away from where she first began. However, throughout she never abandons her roots and constantly reminds the reader and herself who she is and where she comes from.
A very proud Mongolian lady who shares her family's joy and heartache as the story draws to it's conclusion.
Although a bit of a sad and upsetting end to the book the resulting loss inspires her to share her story with us all.
Never judge a book by it's cover. Or a writer by their upbringing.
A very enjoyable read throughout following the journey of a young Mongolian born and raised girl as she makes her way through life.
An upbringing filled with many strange and wonderful experiences that eventually sees her settled in Scotland. A world away from where she first began. However, throughout she never abandons her roots and constantly reminds the reader and herself who she is and where she comes from.
A very proud Mongolian lady who shares her family's joy and heartache as the story draws to it's conclusion.
Although a bit of a sad and upsetting end to the book the resulting loss inspires her to share her story with us all.
Never judge a book by it's cover. Or a writer by their upbringing.
March 23, 2020
An easy read, with interesting snippets of the author's Mongolian childhood.
The authour's writing lacks frills and it's refreshing to read when it clips along at quite a pace.
The authour's writing lacks frills and it's refreshing to read when it clips along at quite a pace.
March 29, 2020
Interesting, informative and heart-breaking.
March 1, 2021
Thank you Uuganaa for sharing your wonderful culture, your beautiful family and such painful heartbreak with us. I cried for Billy as though he was my own family.
God bless him x
баярлалаа x
God bless him x
баярлалаа x
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2022
Listened to the audiobook.
February 10, 2017
Ramsay is a Mongolian married to a Scot and living in the UK. Her memoir covers growing up in Mongolia and her subsequent move to Scotland. She also talks about her son Billy who was born with Down's Syndrome. The sections about life in Mongolia were fascinating and I enjoyed learning more about this culture. There was also a lot of sadness in relation to Billy and his story.
March 7, 2015
I found Ramsays depiction of life growing up in rural Mongolia in a ger fascinating. The title Mongol is a play on the name given to people from Mongolia and the name given to people with Downs syndrome. Her son is born with Downs and she is struck by the prejudice against him because of his condition and his ethnicity. It wasn't until nearly the end of the last chapter when I realised that she is now living in my home town in the west coast of Scotland. She talks about going to the harbourside restaurant Scotts near her home and I'm thinking that could be the restaurant round the corner, then she mentions my local church. So she came from rural Mongolia, learnt English in Ulanbataar, married a Scottish guy and now lives in my home town.
It bothers me though that she goes to live in London and go to grad school while her parents look after her daughter in Mongolia. Most people would not have the option or desire to leave their child with family while they move to the other side of the world in order to advance their education.
Good book though. If I meet her I'll say hi.
It bothers me though that she goes to live in London and go to grad school while her parents look after her daughter in Mongolia. Most people would not have the option or desire to leave their child with family while they move to the other side of the world in order to advance their education.
Good book though. If I meet her I'll say hi.
September 6, 2015
I enjoyed this because of the insight into Mongolian life and culture.
The book is a memoir of the author's childhood and youth in Mongolia, and a tribute to the short life of her son Billy, born with Down's syndrome. It is full of fascinating vignettes and descriptions about Mongolia, about adapting to life in Scotland. And it is a poignant description of tragic times.
The author's style is clean and straightforward, without unnecessary embellishment, but I did not find the book particularly well written.
The book is a memoir of the author's childhood and youth in Mongolia, and a tribute to the short life of her son Billy, born with Down's syndrome. It is full of fascinating vignettes and descriptions about Mongolia, about adapting to life in Scotland. And it is a poignant description of tragic times.
The author's style is clean and straightforward, without unnecessary embellishment, but I did not find the book particularly well written.
October 5, 2015
This is not the kind of book I'd normally read but the synopsis intrigued me. I liked the descriptions of growing up in Mongolia as it's so different to my part of the world and it's a country I didn't know much about. The experience of a woman coming from Mongolia to live in the UK caused difficulties of its own but learning to look after a baby born with Down Syndrome is difficult for anyone from any culture to deal with. The author came across as a very down to earth person and very likeable.
February 8, 2017
A must read if you are interested in Mongolia, its people and traditions.
December 18, 2015
I really enjoyed reading Mongol - it was almost as though I was getting a two-for-one deal as I learnt so much about Mongolian tradition and culture and also was able to read the heartbreaking story of Billy's short life. The writing took me a little to get used to as it was clearly authored by someone who has English as a second language but this is easily overcome when you are drawn into the magic of the story.
September 15, 2015
A sweet book which gave me real insight into a completely different culture. A little tricky to read at points and some occasionally awkward writing but overall honest, interesting and moving.
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October 8, 2017intersting
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews