👶👶👶👶👶 In the Shadow of 10,000 Hills, by Jennifer Haupt

A stunningly important read, this novel left me speechless, as I was transported back into the heinous atrocities committed during the Rwandan genocide in the mid-1990’s. That this type of barbarity could occur in modern times, is astonishing. I am so grateful to Jennifer Haupt for bringing this recent history to light, especially to those of us who were relatively young when this evil occurred, and unaware of the severity of the situation. I had heard of the political upheaval in Rwanda, but must admit my naivety regarding the true breadth of it all.

Ms. Haupt not only did her homework as far as the historical accuracy, but she allowed her audience to experience the breathtaking beauty of this land, which was completely incongruent to the horrors committed there. However, this contrast added to the power of the novel. Haupt also seamlessly blended a more current story in the United States, with the events of the past in Rwanda, luring the reader into these events with a hesitant gusto. The characters in this novel were exceptional, bringing with them their hope, fear, and bravery, and sharing an intense bond that made my heart ache. All of them are so memorable, and will stick with me for a long time to come.

Be prepared for abhorrent violence, as is the case with any novel about war. The nature of these killings, in particular the innocents and children, is incredibly difficult to stomach. However, as is said, “Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it.”

Many thanks to Central Avenue Publishing for gifting me with this book in exchange for an honest review.

Read 4/2/18