Walk barefoot and the thorns will hurt you

Barefoot in Baghdad

By Manal Omar 
$2.39

The intriguing cover, of a haunting, yet possibly beautiful Arab woman caught my attention, and the descriptions that followed held me there.  Also unique, is the fact that this book only has a few reviews thus far, with an 80%, 5-star rate, and yet has climbed to the Top 100 Paid Kindle list already.  I am certain that many more positive reviews will be following suit shortly.

Omar's writes with a powerful perspective of growing up throughout the southern United States and spending summers in the Middle East.  As an International Aid worker in Iraq from 2003-2005, she allows us westerners much more than a glimpse into a world far from our own, both distally and often-times morally.

Reviews:

Omar provides a rare glimpse into facets of Iraqi life not often described in American newspapers and magazines as she describes not only the dangers but also the joys, small and great. (Booklist 20100831)

"Giving both an insider's and an outsider's view of the unfolding drama of Iraq, the memoir should prove worthwhile reading for anyone who has a keen interest in developments in the Middle East." (Lois Henderson Book Pleasures )

"We gain a picture of Baghdad beyond the Green Zone and through the eyes of a bright, young, idealistic humanitarian."

(A Traveler's Library )

"You may not be able to lay Barefoot in Baghdad down for a while. This book will capture your interest." (South by Southwest )     

A riveting story of hope and despair, of elation and longing, Barefoot in Baghdad takes you to the front lines of a different kind of battle, where the unsung freedom fighters are strong, vibrant-and female.

http://www.amazon.com/Barefoot-in-Baghdad-ebook/dp/B003V4BPLU