Books matching: genocide
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Gut-wrenching, powerful, and deeply important - Shake Hands with the Devil is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the true cost of global inaction and the weight of witnessing atrocity, though it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
'Shake Hands with the Devil' by Romeo Dallaire is a non-fiction account of the Rwandan Genocide, as seen through the eyes of the author who was the head of the UN peacekeeping mission during that time. The book delves into the darkest depths of society, showcasing how politics can hinder human decency in times of crisis. Dallaire's memoir focuses on his experiences commanding the UN mission in Rwanda immediately before and during the genocide, shedding light on the horrific events that unfolded and the sacrifices made by himself and his team.
The narrative of 'Shake Hands with the Devil' offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on the Rwandan Genocide, highlighting the price of inaction and the consequences of not doing enough to prevent such atrocities. Dallaire's writing style captures the essence of the conflict, providing readers with a harrowing account of the events that transpired, showcasing both the darkest and brightest aspects of humanity in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
MY FIRST LOVE has always been the army. It has been my mistress, my muse and my family. Even as a child, I never had any doubt about where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do. My first toy, brought...1998•593 pagesA deeply researched, passionate account of America's response (or lack thereof) to genocide. It's challenging but essential reading for those who want to understand the politics and ethics of intervention in modern times.
"A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide" by Samantha Power delves into the history and recognition of genocide as an international crime. Power discusses the efforts of individuals like Raphael Lemkin in formulating the legal definition of genocide and pushing for international action. Through case studies on Cambodia, Iraq, the Balkans, and Rwanda, Power highlights the failures of Western powers, especially the United States, to intervene in genocidal atrocities. emphasizes the importance of humanitarian intervention and criticizes the inaction and indifference displayed by governments and international organizations in the face of mass killings.
Power's writing style combines historical accounts with personal anecdotes and critical analysis. presents a compelling narrative that motivates readers to confront the horrors of genocide and consider strategies for prevention. Power urges the United States to prioritize humanitarian objectives in its foreign policy and advocates for unilateral American action in addressing genocide, while also emphasizing the need for international cooperation and the limitations of existing institutions.
On March 14, 1921, on a damp day in the Charlottenburg district of Berlin, a twenty-four-year-old Armenian crept up behind a man in a heavy gray overcoat swinging his cane. The Armenian, Soghomon Tehl...2000•723 pages- #3
Save:A riveting and essential account of the Rwandan genocide that doesn't just inform - it will leave you changed. Haunting, thought-provoking, and superbly written, this book is a cornerstone for understanding both Rwanda and the global response to atrocity.
'We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families' by Philip Gourevitch is a non-fiction account that delves into the Rwandan Genocide. The author presents the heartbreaking stories of the genocide survivors, painting a vivid and haunting picture of the atrocities that occurred in Rwanda in 1994. Gourevitch's writing style is described as very well written, making the reader deeply feel the sadness and horror of the events depicted in the book.
The narrative in 'We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families' is said to be extremely depressing yet captivating. provides a deep insight into the Rwandan Genocide, shedding light on the tragic events that unfolded during that dark period in history. Readers mention that once they got into the book, the sadness and horror portrayed in the stories started to make sense, showcasing the author's ability to convey the brutal reality of the genocide.
IN THE PROVINCE of Kibungo, in eastern Rwanda, in the swamp- and pastureland near the Tanzanian border, there’s a rocky hill called Nyarubuye with a church where many Tutsis were slaughtered in mid-Ap...1998•359 pages - #4
Save:A beautifully written, eye-opening historical novel that illuminates a forgotten tragedy - emotionally engaging, but be prepared for tough subject matter and narrative shifts. Worth reading for the history and humanity at its core.
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian is a historical fiction novel that delves into the little-known Armenian Genocide of 1915. The story follows the lives of Elizabeth Endicott, an American nurse volunteering in Aleppo during the genocide, and Armen Petrosian, a young Armenian engineer who has already experienced great loss. Through a mix of past and present narratives, the book explores themes of love, loss, and family secrets, ultimately shedding light on a tragic moment in history that is often overlooked.
THE YOUNG WOMAN, TWENTY-ONE, WALKS GINGERLY DOWN THE dusty street between her father and the American consul here in Aleppo, an energetic fellow almost her father’s age named Ryan Donald Martin, and d...July 2012•408 pages - #5
Save:A heavyweight, often unwieldy, but incredibly well-researched survey of humanity’s darkest impulses. Not for the faint-hearted or casual reader, but invaluable as a reference or for those tackling the grim realities of genocide in depth.
Ben Kiernan's 'Blood and Soil' is a comprehensive exploration of genocide and extermination throughout history. The book delves into the common factors underlying genocides, such as territorial expansion, racial and religious prejudices, and a romanticized view of past glories related to agriculture or land. Kiernan argues that these factors, when combined, can lead to mass extermination. The writing style of the book is described as dense and detailed, painting a bleak picture of humanity through historical case studies and analysis.
2007•768 pages A devastating, unforgettable look at the darkest recesses of human nature, as told by those who enacted the violence. Not an easy read - but absolutely essential if you want to grapple with the reality of genocide beyond the textbooks.
'Machete Season: The Killers in Rwanda Speak' by Jean Hatzfeld delves into the harrowing accounts of the Rwandan genocide through interviews with the perpetrators and survivors. The book portrays the chilling indifference of the killers towards their gruesome crimes, shedding light on the dark depths of human nature. Hatzfeld's writing style presents the facts without sugar-coating, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the atrocities committed during this tragic period in history.
1990 The Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front, which has been assembled from Tutsi militias operating out of Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and Zaire, gains its first military victories in Rwanda. Hutu extre...2003•272 pages- #7
Save:Hard-hitting, unforgettable, and necessary - an essential read for anyone wanting to understand the Rwandan genocide through the eyes of someone who witnessed its aftermath firsthand.
'Season of Blood: A Rwandan Journey' by Fergal Keane is a first-hand account of the Rwandan genocide in 1994. The author, a BBC reporter, delves into the atrocities that took place over a span of three months, where nearly a million people, mostly Tutsis and Hutus sympathizers, were slaughtered. Keane's writing style is described as honest, poignant, and compassionate, providing a witness account of the horrors that unfolded in Rwanda during that time. captures the historical disquiet between the local tribes of Tutsi and Hutu, shedding light on the violence, fear, and devastation experienced by the victims and the brave individuals who tried to uncover the truth amidst the volatile environment.
The road south is narrow and endless. We have been driving since early morning, and the green hill country has begun to lose focus. It is a blur on to which have been painted occasional villages in sh...1995•225 pages A deeply emotional and inspiring memoir about surviving the unspeakable, finding faith, and choosing forgiveness; a must-read for those seeking hope and humanity amid horror.
Left to Tell by Immaculee Ilibagiza is a gripping account of survival during the Rwandan genocide in 1994. The book details Immaculee's harrowing experience of hiding in a tiny bathroom with other Tutsi women while the genocide raged around them. Despite the horrors she witnessed, Immaculee's narrative is filled with messages of forgiveness, faith, and hope. The writing style is described as vivid and detailed, painting a suspenseful and heartbreaking picture of the destruction happening outside her hiding place.
Immaculee's story is not just about survival, but also about the power of forgiveness and the strength found in her relationship with God. The book portrays her journey of healing and the importance of forgiveness, even towards those who caused her immense pain. It is a story of resilience, faith, and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
Rwanda is a tiny country set like a jewel in central Africa. She is so breathtakingly beautiful that it’s impossible not to see the hand of God in her lush, rolling hills; mist-shrouded mountains; gre...June 2006•247 pages- #9
Save:A powerful, meticulously documented exposé that will change the way you see California - and American - history. Essential reading for truth-seekers, but definitely not for the faint of heart.
Benjamin Madley's book, 'An American Genocide: The United States and the California Indian Catastrophe, 1846-1873', meticulously details the genocide of native California tribes, recounting massacre by massacre, killing by killing, and death by death. The narrative is bone-chilling, personalized through contemporary sources like newspaper accounts, correspondence, and personal reminiscences. The book sheds light on the dark, hidden, and shameful history of California, exposing the brutal treatment of the indigenous population by settlers and explorers during the mid-19th century. Madley's writing style, supported by extensive research and documentation, presents a gut-wrenching account of the atrocities committed against Native Americans in California.
The book also delves into the historical context of California's early years, highlighting the systemic institutionalization of Indian killing by state legislators and the brutal practices of prominent figures like General John C. Fremont and Johann Sutter. Madley's narrative challenges the traditional narratives taught in schools, revealing the true extent of the violence and genocide perpetrated against Native Californians. The author's comprehensive examination of the period between 1846 and 1873 uncovers a mountain of evidence of crimes committed against indigenous tribes, urging readers to confront the uncomfortable truths of their nation's past.
This rare mission-period California Indian sketch may represent Luiseño Eagle Dancers. The Luiseño scholar Pablo Tac made this drawing while studying in Rome, Italy. Pablo Tac (Luiseño), “Untitled,” d...May 2016•767 pages - #10
Save:Short, beautifully written, and devastating - the unforgettable story of a boy's lost innocence in Burundi's shadow of war. Highly recommended for fans of literary fiction that isn't afraid to stare history in the face.
'Small Country' by Gael Faye is a poignant coming-of-age novel set in Burundi during the 1990s, revolving around the life of Gabriel, a young boy caught in the midst of war and genocide. Through Gabriel's eyes, the author explores themes of childhood innocence shattered by conflict, the impact of ethnic identity on relationships, and the loss of home and belonging. Faye's writing style is described as poetic and honest, effectively portraying the transformation of a once idyllic life into a harrowing tale of survival and loss.
I’ll never know the true cause of my parents’ separation. There must have been some fundamental misunderstanding from the outset—a manufacturing flaw in their encounter, an asterisk nobody saw or want...June 2018•184 pages
