When I started this book I was overwhelmed by great sadness. Had I not been reading it for book club I might have stopped. However, once you can accept the conditions the protagonist must live in, it is a beautiful and inspiring book.I especially applaud the authors sensitive treatment of the Cambodian genocide that took place in the 1970's. We have heard so little about it. It is a frightening reminder that the holocaust is a reoccurring phenomenon. A tender story about looking for the good in all things, finding ways to grow and learn in even the worst of circumstances, and not judging people by their outward appearance and behavior. Based on real people who live in impossible surroundings yet somehow manage to create a life for themselves, the story is eye-opening and sometimes heartbreaking. I loved Sang Ly's tenacity, desire to learn and willingness to do whatever it took to give her son a better life. This story was uplifting and inspiring and a good lesson on "walking a mile in a man's shoes" before passing judgement.
What do You think about The Rent Collector (2012)?
Heartwarming, courageous. Valuable tale for all.
—shani