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Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story
Marla Ruzicka was a free spirit, a savvy political operator, a wartime Erin Brockovich. Fiercely determined to improve the lives of the less fortunate, the twenty-something blonde was instrumental in convincing the U.S. government to pass historic legislation aiding civilian victims of war.
Sweet Relief recounts Marla's journey from an idyllic childhood in a small California town, through Latin America and Africa, and finally to the war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq. Whether she was Rollerblading the halls of Congress to secure funds for civilians in Iraq or throwing parties for journalists in Kabul to raise awareness of her cause, no one who came within a hundred yards of Marla missed her. Her friendly smile and indefatigable pose were ubiquitous in Afghanistan and Iraq where Marla managed a door-to-door effort to identify war victims.
While Marla worked tirelessly to care for others, in many ways she neglected herself. A diagnosed manic-depressive, Marla battled extreme emotional lows and an eating disorder. And although she brought love into the homes of the aggrieved, she often struggled to find a love of her own.
Marla gave the invisible victims of war a voice and, in the process, helped to win them millions of dollars in unprecedented aid. Tragically, Marla was killed by a suicide bomber on Airport Road in Iraq in April 2005. Weeks later, the U.S. government named the program she fought so hard to establish The Marla Ruzicka Fund. Her life and legacy are an inspiring reminder that love and determination can conquer all.
Sweet Relief recounts Marla's journey from an idyllic childhood in a small California town, through Latin America and Africa, and finally to the war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq. Whether she was Rollerblading the halls of Congress to secure funds for civilians in Iraq or throwing parties for journalists in Kabul to raise awareness of her cause, no one who came within a hundred yards of Marla missed her. Her friendly smile and indefatigable pose were ubiquitous in Afghanistan and Iraq where Marla managed a door-to-door effort to identify war victims.
While Marla worked tirelessly to care for others, in many ways she neglected herself. A diagnosed manic-depressive, Marla battled extreme emotional lows and an eating disorder. And although she brought love into the homes of the aggrieved, she often struggled to find a love of her own.
Marla gave the invisible victims of war a voice and, in the process, helped to win them millions of dollars in unprecedented aid. Tragically, Marla was killed by a suicide bomber on Airport Road in Iraq in April 2005. Weeks later, the U.S. government named the program she fought so hard to establish The Marla Ruzicka Fund. Her life and legacy are an inspiring reminder that love and determination can conquer all.
- GenresNonfiction
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2006
2 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 2, 2019
Jenn has done a damn fine job of getting across an important, but complicated and difficult, story that is more important today than when the book came out. With passion and struggles, and international relations and change, the book's core rests on that we all need more people like Marla; people who are working, body and soul, for deep change.
January 10, 2013
I knew Marla from the time she was a baby. She was so spirited. Reading this book brought back good memories of an incredible young woman.
May 26, 2018
I had the good fortune to know and coach Marla in basketball as she grew up in the Lakeport schools. I also know her twin brother Mark, and her parents. She was always a standout person and she stood up for anyone she perceived as wrongly mistreated. Her mother gave me a copy of this book not long after it was published. Reading it, and hearing of her growth, her struggles, and her successes made me even more proud of her. She is truly a role model for all of our children and a hero of those destroyed and disabled by war. If you are looking for a book to give your kids for the holidays, or if you yourself are having trouble finding bright spots in the landscape of our youth--here is one that will touch your heart.
December 22, 2025
Incredibly Inspiring
I just finished this beautiful book and I can’t stop thinking about Marla What she accomplished was extraordinary snd Jennifer Abrahamson tells her story well. Thank you Jennifer for writing this wonderful book!.
I just finished this beautiful book and I can’t stop thinking about Marla What she accomplished was extraordinary snd Jennifer Abrahamson tells her story well. Thank you Jennifer for writing this wonderful book!.
October 1, 2023
Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story
It is not often that a single person could make a real and lasting difference in the world. The late Marla Ruzicka, however, was a true beacon of hope for many. Her book, Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story, is a breathtaking reminder of the power of one small person to make a big impact. Marla Ruzicka was an American aid worker who devoted her life to helping the victims of the Iraq War and the subsequent US military actions. In 2004, at the age of 28, she was killed by a car bomb in Baghdad, Iraq. Though her life was tragically short, she left an indelible mark on the world. Sweet Relief is the story of Marla and her mission to provide peace and aid to the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. It is a book about her courage and dedication to her cause and the people she served. This inspiring tale of Marla's short but extraordinary life is brought to life by author Candy Arrington. Through detailed research and interviews with those closest to Marla, Arrington paints a beautiful portrait of a woman whose courage and perseverance changed the lives of many in the Middle East. Sweet Relief is divided into two-parts. The first half of the book focuses on Marla's childhood in Napa, California, her time as an activist in college, and the development of her nonprofit organization, Campaign for Innocent Victims in Conflict (CIVIC). It is in these early stages of her life that Marla began to develop her deep commitment to helping those in need, a commitment that would take her to Iraq and Afghanistan to eventually help thousands of people. The second half of the book focuses more closely on Marla's experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. Here, Arrington recounts in heartbreaking detail the horrors of war and the resilience of the people who faced it every day. She recounts the moments of hope and joy amidst the despair of living in a war zone. Marla was a living example of hope and courage in the face of terror and violence. Overall, Sweet Relief is an inspiring and poignant book that pays homage to the life and work of Marla Ruzicka. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics, NGO development, and the stories of courage and resilience that come through times of conflict.
Key Takeaways from Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story:
1.) Marla Ruzicka was an American aid worker who devoted her life to helping people in Iraq and Afghanistan.
2.) This book tells the story of her courage and dedication to her cause and the people she served.
It is divided into two parts, the first focuses on Marla's early life, while the second part focuses on her experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan.
3.) The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics, NGO development, and stories of courage.
4.) It is an inspiring and poignant book that pays homage to the life and work of Marla Ruzicka.
The Power of Marla's Story
Marla's story is one of courage, resilience, and the potential of the human spirit. In her short life, she managed to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of thousands of people in the Middle East. Sweet Relief is a reminder that one person can make a real impact on the world. It is an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference, no matter how small or insignificant our actions may seem. Marla Ruzicka was a powerful advocate for peace, justice, and a better future for those affected by war. Her story is an example of how even in the midst of the most trying of circumstances, there is always hope. It is a reminder that there is still beauty and goodness in the world, and that it must be defended. Sweet Relief is an inspirational book that will leave you with a sense of hope and strength.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story is an inspirational and heartbreaking book about a woman who made an undeniable impact on the world. Marla was a beacon of hope in a dark and dangerous place. Through her story, readers gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the power of one small person to make a difference. This book is not just a reminder of Marla Ruzicka's legacy, but a reminder of the potential of every person to make a real, lasting impact.
It is not often that a single person could make a real and lasting difference in the world. The late Marla Ruzicka, however, was a true beacon of hope for many. Her book, Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story, is a breathtaking reminder of the power of one small person to make a big impact. Marla Ruzicka was an American aid worker who devoted her life to helping the victims of the Iraq War and the subsequent US military actions. In 2004, at the age of 28, she was killed by a car bomb in Baghdad, Iraq. Though her life was tragically short, she left an indelible mark on the world. Sweet Relief is the story of Marla and her mission to provide peace and aid to the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. It is a book about her courage and dedication to her cause and the people she served. This inspiring tale of Marla's short but extraordinary life is brought to life by author Candy Arrington. Through detailed research and interviews with those closest to Marla, Arrington paints a beautiful portrait of a woman whose courage and perseverance changed the lives of many in the Middle East. Sweet Relief is divided into two-parts. The first half of the book focuses on Marla's childhood in Napa, California, her time as an activist in college, and the development of her nonprofit organization, Campaign for Innocent Victims in Conflict (CIVIC). It is in these early stages of her life that Marla began to develop her deep commitment to helping those in need, a commitment that would take her to Iraq and Afghanistan to eventually help thousands of people. The second half of the book focuses more closely on Marla's experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. Here, Arrington recounts in heartbreaking detail the horrors of war and the resilience of the people who faced it every day. She recounts the moments of hope and joy amidst the despair of living in a war zone. Marla was a living example of hope and courage in the face of terror and violence. Overall, Sweet Relief is an inspiring and poignant book that pays homage to the life and work of Marla Ruzicka. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics, NGO development, and the stories of courage and resilience that come through times of conflict.
Key Takeaways from Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story:
1.) Marla Ruzicka was an American aid worker who devoted her life to helping people in Iraq and Afghanistan.
2.) This book tells the story of her courage and dedication to her cause and the people she served.
It is divided into two parts, the first focuses on Marla's early life, while the second part focuses on her experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan.
3.) The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics, NGO development, and stories of courage.
4.) It is an inspiring and poignant book that pays homage to the life and work of Marla Ruzicka.
The Power of Marla's Story
Marla's story is one of courage, resilience, and the potential of the human spirit. In her short life, she managed to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of thousands of people in the Middle East. Sweet Relief is a reminder that one person can make a real impact on the world. It is an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference, no matter how small or insignificant our actions may seem. Marla Ruzicka was a powerful advocate for peace, justice, and a better future for those affected by war. Her story is an example of how even in the midst of the most trying of circumstances, there is always hope. It is a reminder that there is still beauty and goodness in the world, and that it must be defended. Sweet Relief is an inspirational book that will leave you with a sense of hope and strength.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Relief: The Marla Ruzicka Story is an inspirational and heartbreaking book about a woman who made an undeniable impact on the world. Marla was a beacon of hope in a dark and dangerous place. Through her story, readers gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the power of one small person to make a difference. This book is not just a reminder of Marla Ruzicka's legacy, but a reminder of the potential of every person to make a real, lasting impact.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2007
I picked this up ages ago, and after reading Babylon by Bus, where Marla is mentioned, it reminded me of this book and it seemed an appropriate time to finally start reading this. Got through the first couple chapters and I can't put it down. What a charismatic woman!
I've finished it now and WOW! What an amazing woman. She did so much to aid civilian casualties of war in Afganistan and Iraq. She was absolutely manic in her energy and charm and managed to do things no one else ever could simply by just burrowing herself into a place, socializing, networking, throwing parties and lobbying congress and becoming a worldwide known human rights organizer. Her bi-polar manic depression fed her drive and was her own best and worst enemy. I see several of my overdriven friends in her. She was killed by a suicide car bomb in 2005, but she made her mark on everyone who met her and this biography tells an amazing story. Talk about the flipside to the Babylon by Bus story - this is about one woman who dedicated every ounce of herself to the cause and solicited help from everyone in her path and forged a way against all odds. Amazing!
I've finished it now and WOW! What an amazing woman. She did so much to aid civilian casualties of war in Afganistan and Iraq. She was absolutely manic in her energy and charm and managed to do things no one else ever could simply by just burrowing herself into a place, socializing, networking, throwing parties and lobbying congress and becoming a worldwide known human rights organizer. Her bi-polar manic depression fed her drive and was her own best and worst enemy. I see several of my overdriven friends in her. She was killed by a suicide car bomb in 2005, but she made her mark on everyone who met her and this biography tells an amazing story. Talk about the flipside to the Babylon by Bus story - this is about one woman who dedicated every ounce of herself to the cause and solicited help from everyone in her path and forged a way against all odds. Amazing!
January 3, 2016
This is a heartbreaking and inspiring story of a brave young woman who against all odds and numerous obstacles, made a significant impact on the lives of Iraqi and Afghan civilian victims of war and urged the US military to take responsibility for the inadvertent damage caused by war. Despite the fact that she was battling her own demons, she put her own problems, and frequently her health, aside to fight for justice for others. Her charismatic personality and relentless determination led to legislation that will continue to assist these victims and hopefully set a precedent for future victims of war and conflict. Beautiful story.
April 27, 2007
I read this book over the holidays and couldn't put it down. For such a young life, Marla sure did live a full life. She took risks and only wanted to help those in need. If we could all help those in need....
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Book 9
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August 14, 2007Rating: A
Jen told me this book changed her life, and it definitely is inspiration. It brought tears to my eyes; the story of a dedicated and manic young activist who died at age 28 (a year older than me) in Iraq. She did so much and was so unappreciated…Sad but a great book.
Jen told me this book changed her life, and it definitely is inspiration. It brought tears to my eyes; the story of a dedicated and manic young activist who died at age 28 (a year older than me) in Iraq. She did so much and was so unappreciated…Sad but a great book.
January 27, 2009
This girl's story is absolutely amazing and inspiring. Her mania comes across each page, in an unnerving, yet truly inspiring way. I admire her work, but was also reminded me that we can't keep helping once we're dead.
November 25, 2008
A must read...REALLY!
July 15, 2009
I knew Marla, so maybe I'm biased, but read this book and you'll understand how one person can and does change the world.
July 11, 2011
Another great woman, as Rachel Corrie, that stood up for Palestinains having rights. Also dying for the cause and will not be forgotten.
January 3, 2015
This book was really good. I think that anyone who like inspiring people should read this.
April 9, 2016
This is an amazing book about an amazingly strong woman!
May 27, 2012
One of those inspiring stories you have to read.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews