Timothy Bertram I was completely sucked in. On Saturday evening I was engrossed for hours on end and ended up dreaming about it both Saturday night and last night. Believe me, few books have that effect on me.
I felt that I was on an emotional rollercoaster with Modetse. You managed to capture what seems to me to be a very authentic and honest portrayal of what these children must have gone through. In particular, you made the descent into darkness and the almost impossible climb back out understandable for me. As a result, I could definitely empathize with Modetse and the other boys, as well of course as with Thandi. It forced me to look at those who help or maybe appear to push their help through their eyes, understanding why there would be the resistance and hostility. The Stockholm Syndrome of being in the LRA under Mobuto's leadership also became relatable. What a huge writing feat that is, Julia!
Emma Marshall I found it quite gripping and it has been distracting me from real life! Read through in 2 sittings interrupted only by my body insisting on sleep.
The showing of the two different kinds of baptism was fab, really strong writing in both sections. Gave me a lot to think about in the nature of faith and how the trappings of many things can look similar. Enough debate and exploration to hold the atheist.