Hanna Jansen

The first YA novel I know of having to do with the Rwandan genocide of Hutus and Tutsis. The book is based on the German author's adoptive child's experiences in Rwanda during the mid-90s genocide. Jeanne and her family live a fairly comfortable life in Rwanda until the assassination of the president and his cabinet causes chaos throughout the country. As Tutsis, the family is forced to flee invading Hutus who are murdering citizens and destroying property. Jeanne witnesses her mother's and brother's deaths, and loses the rest of her family. She has to rely on the questionable tolerance of strangers to survive another day.… (mais)

This book is about about a girl named Jeanne D'Arc. Before the Rwandan Genocide, she was a typical Rwandan girl. Then one day, Jeanne had to flee her home to escape jailors who were killing all the Tutsis. Unfortunately, Jeanne was the only one in her family who survived. Later on, Jeanne stayed with the Rebels until going to live with her aunt in Germany.
I liked this book very much. I felt very sorry for her when she realized that her parents and siblings died. I admired her strength when she asked the Rebels for help.… (mais)