What I read this week

I just finished this book and I had to write about it. It left such an impression on my heart. I wish I knew someone else who just read it, so I could discuss it at length. The book is over 500 pages long but took me less than a week from start to finish. Once the plot began rolling, I was hooked and 100% invested.

The book is a true account of what happened to Fauziya Kassindja. She was 15 and living in Togo, Africa, when her father died, leaving her in the care of her uncle who removed her from high school and arranged a marriage to a man twice her age (who already had 3 other wives). Her Uncle also explained to her that now that her father was dead, she would no longer be protected by his liberal worldview and she would be "cut" according to their custom. Fauziya, fled the marriage and the forced female genital mutilation and came to America seeking asylum.

This story just floored me. Fauziya was treated as a criminal in the United States. Even though she did not attempt to enter the country illegally, she was thrown into jail and kept there for a year and a half. In that time she goes through UNBELIEVABLE mental and physical trials. Nearly losing her mind and her life. At many points in the book, I seriously thought I might lose it with her.

To get a short article summary of what makes this book so gripping, click here. I understand if you don't have the time to sit down with this 500+ page book -- it's definitely NOT a light summer read-- I mean it isn't hard to get through but man, not a light topic! I hope you read the article familiarizing yourself with the basics of Fauziya's story. It made me take a closer look at what I think of when I think of "illegal immigrant" or "alien."

It also made me realize how our justice system can be so blind. During her first trial for asylum, Fauziya is treated deplorably by the trial judge, who interrupts her, mocks her and accuses her of lying about her story. According to him (a white privileged male who'd never even been to Togo) Fauziya could have EASILY avoided the mutilation if she so chose and it wasn't grounds for asylum, simply part of her culture that she should have to deal with.

An American judge said that!! That women don't deserve protection from forced marriage (and forced rape) and terrible genital mutilation. Makes you really worried huh?

The end of this book made me sob out loud. I don't know if a film version could capture this all adequately but I'd love to see it attempted because the story of faith, perseverance and love are just overwhelming. By the end, this book is not a downer, but really leaves you feeling full of hope and gratitude.

I think my next book shall be a sleazy romance novel, or something likewise as light. Hope you're enjoying your summer reading!

xoxo