War and Me by Faleeha Hasssan is a touching and brave story that unfolds through a tumultuous period in Iraq’s history. Her memoir takes us deep into her life with her close family, navigating the challenges growing up and dealing with the hardships and obstacles during this time. No matter how much she or her family lost or feared, her determination and strength is inspiring and a testament to her faith and resilience.

During this time, her life progresses during the time of a war that was supposed to be short lived but continued. Her memoir captures a story that is often never heard from voices that often seemed silenced. The casualties of the effects of war faced by innocent people that go far beyond just physical injuries. Having to face the trauma of watching her father and brother being taken in war, poverty, and just trying to survive had a tremendous impact on their family. The harsh reality of the impact of everyday life, health and safety, we get a heartbreaking but courageous perspective that in spite of, a courageous spirit and resilience gave her the strength to fight through insurmountable obstacles.

Despite the numerous hardships, her success as a teacher and getting the opportunity to build a life in the US that she deserves, she was able to freely share her voice which deserves to be heard. Her book is a testament to her determination to fight her way through adversity but also share a perspective of life as a Muslim woman from Iraq and/or the Middle East that hopefully will shed certain stereotypes and open hearts for compassion and empathy. Her narrative will give us insight into life trying to survive, loss, love and family.

War and Me overall was a beautifully written book that will captivate you with a story that is honest, compelling and hopefully makes you appreciate the freedom of life we have. Her memoir is a testament of the strength of the human spirit and through the worst of times, the unbreakable bonds and foundation of the love of a great family that can carry you through anything. This is one of the books that will leave a lasting impression, hopefully collectively inspire compassion and empathy for those whose experiences may be similar.

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