Beneath the Lion's Gaze by Maaza Mengiste

"Beneath the Lion's Gaze" by Maaza Mengiste, is a fascinating history lesson on Ethiopa in 1974. I'm afraid I am not well versed in any of Ethiopa's history and have now become mesmerized by this country. This is a very well written fiction/history tale.

This story is about a family trying to overcome the horrors of the revolution of 1974. It is a story of torture (sometimes unbearable to read), love of a family and bravery. The father, Hailu, is a prominent physician and becomes involved with the victims of torture and murder. His youngest son, Dawit, joins the underground resistance movement. The family becomes entangled in all sorts of misery and through the horror they become closer. They find a way to overcome hard feelings and to love without prejudice.

There is so much more involved in this "never put it down" story and I don't want to take away from the read by revealing too much. I admit there are times I could hardly bear to read the scenes of torture but pushed through to get the full picture of the trials the people of Ethiopa struggled with in this insane revolution.

I recommend this book wholeheartedly for the story line and the fabulous writing. However, it does bring to mind the evils of some of mankind and might be too much for some readers. I would love to hear any remarks by anyone who reads this terrifying look into the history of Ethiopa.

Lucky Days @ the Library!

Fri 7/16 : 7pm. Traveling Lantern Theater Group presents Pinocchio at the Triangle Park on Park Ave
Fri 7/16: 8-3pm Rummage Sale at Lions Hall (former DBS)
Sat 7/17 : 9-3pm Book Sale

CLOSED on the 5th of July

The Library will be CLOSED on Monday, July 5
to celebrate Independence Day!
We WILL be open from 10am-1pm on Saturday, July 3
We will reopen on Tuesday, July 6
at our usual business hours.
Have a Safe Holiday!