A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah

This autobiography tells of the author's life in war torn Sierra Leone.  When Ishmael Beah was just ten years old, civil war swept his country.  When it reached his village, he and his brother fled, and were forced to survive in the wilderness with other children fleeing both the rebels and the army.  At age 13, he was forced to join the army, and for several years he lived a life of terrible violence.  Eventually he does find peace.

I don't have enough time to explain how important it is to read this book.  For anyone interested in the rights of children, in Africa, or in a story of hope, this exciting, well written book is a must read.