R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed The Poet of Baghdad: A True Story of Love and Defiance on + 1453 more book reviews
It is 1979 when a famous young poet from Iraq gathers his family and leaves his homeland. Life has become too dangerous for him to remain. Nabeel Yasin was determined to write his poetry as he saw his country and the people who live there. His defiance made him a target and an enemy of the state.
This is a fascinating story about a young man who believes so strongly in freedom that he writes about it thereby inspiring others to seek it and resist the political repression under which they live. That trait leads him into dangerous situation after dangerous situation. His brothers, who are as determined as he is, are imprisoned, beaten and tortured time and time again.
Nabeel's life and flight from his country are filled with suspense. His courage to seek a life outside of Iraq is admirable. Even though his work is banned and destroyed, many memorized it to keep hope aflame in their own lives. It's a strong tale about a young man who chooses to speak up for what he believes. Inspiring and very well done.
This is a fascinating story about a young man who believes so strongly in freedom that he writes about it thereby inspiring others to seek it and resist the political repression under which they live. That trait leads him into dangerous situation after dangerous situation. His brothers, who are as determined as he is, are imprisoned, beaten and tortured time and time again.
Nabeel's life and flight from his country are filled with suspense. His courage to seek a life outside of Iraq is admirable. Even though his work is banned and destroyed, many memorized it to keep hope aflame in their own lives. It's a strong tale about a young man who chooses to speak up for what he believes. Inspiring and very well done.
Maggie H. (dipsmom) reviewed The Poet of Baghdad: A True Story of Love and Defiance on + 50 more book reviews
This is a biography of Iraqi Nabeel Yasin-- the story of him and his family pre- and during Saddam's reign. Because of being persecuted by the regime he and his young family left Iraq and lived in multiple countries until they were able to settle in London. It was well written and quite interesting.
Alison F. (alisonf) -
Fascinating story, and an informative look at life in Iraq during the time period. It's always a good thing when I actually learn something while enjoying a book.
