The Translator is a book that took me completely by surprise. I’ve heard it praised by many people, but it’s one of those books whose power evades you until you actually pick it up and read it. For those who don’t know, it’s written by Daoud Hari, a native of Darfur, who served as a translator to the media during the ongoing genocide crisis in Darfur. Before reading this book I was aware of the genocide in Darfur, but I have to admit that I didn’t have much of a knowledge base on everything going on over there and just how bad things actually are.
Daoud Hari tells us how bad things actually are over there and asks for our support. He tells horrifying tales of rape, torture, and whole villages being destroyed. But you would be surprised when you read this book because Hari brings such a ray of light, such a voice of hope to the whole situation. He tells his story from his heart and in the midst of tragedy he unveils a smile and a little humor. He can certainly look at tragedy with a much more positive gleam for the future than I could. But with so much tragedy around you, I guess you would have to in order to go on.
I sometimes actually forgot that I was reading a work of nonfiction while reading this book. There are two main reasons why. 1. Hari writes in a way that is so riveting and so personal that you are completely drawn into the story he is sharing. He portrays his emotions perfectly and really throws the reader into a situation. Secondly and most importantly, I just can’t believe that things so evil actually exist in our world. It nearly brought me to tears to know that as I was reading this book these horrible acts were being comitted in Africa.
I commend Hari for being brave enough to speak against the Sudanese rebels and to reveal as much as he did about the horrors going on in Darfur. It’s something that needs to be shared and something that the world needs to be made aware of. It’s something that needs to be stopped. I highly recommend this quick little read that won’t take any of your time if you haven’t already read it. It’s heartbreaking, but important and surprisingly uplifting at moments.
This is yet another read for the Irresistible review challenge thanks to Debi. I had read many reviews of this one, but it was hers that finally convinced me that I had to read it!
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Hi Chris: Yes, so much evil. Thanks for this review. Sounds like a book I’ll get cause I love nonfiction. And yes, some nonfiction books are so heart-rending and so connected to the soul that they are very powerful. -C
I’ve seen this book on the shelf at the bookstore and was afraid it would be too painful for me to read, but your review takes away that fear. It’s so important that we be aware of what is happening in different parts of the world, and it sounds like Hari makes it possible to read about Darfur without completely losing hope. Very nice review, thanks!
Oh Chris, your review of this book was pure perfection! As horrifying as some of the things are that he describes in this book (and I admit there is one particular scene that continues to haunt me on a nearly daily basis), the real wonder of this book comes from Hari himself. His optimism and hope in a world gone so terribly wrong.
Carole, You’ll love this one…I was going to say enjoy it, but I don’t know if “enjoy” is the right word. It’s an extremely powerful book though. So sad that this is going on right now…so sad.
Robin, It is a painful read just in knowing that it actually happens. But I think that Daoud’s point in writing the book was to make us aware of what is going on in Darfur and to let us know that there is a ray of hope…and he does indeed shed that throughout the book. Give it a go!
Debi, Well thanks! Your review was perfect too…it’s what made me pick up the book after all! I believe that I know the scene that you are talking about…well there are a few that continue to haunt me, but one in particular. I’m truly amazed at his optimism after all that he has gone through. What an incredible man.
I definitely need to read this one. I bought my mother a copy for mother’s day and I can easily borrow it, so I have no excuses. I’m sure it will be a painful read, but, like you said, it’s important to be aware of these things. Daoud does sound like a remarkable man, and I can’t wait to “meet” him.
Thanks Chris for your great review! It is sad that this genocide in Darfur has been going on now for over five years and that more people aren’t outraged enough to put it to a stop. Thanks for speaking up for those who can’t! I read this book as well. It’s a powerful one.