Broken Memory: A Story of Rwanda

Thesis Statement:

Background

Broken Memory is the story of a five year old Emma, like many others, witnessed the brutal murder of a family member, her mother, during the genocide in Rwanda. Haunted by her mother's last words to her, "You must live," Emma joins the thousands of others who are fleeing to safety. Barely alive, she is able to find sanctuary with an old woman, who takes her in, no questions asked. The story picks up nine years later, when those responsible for the mass killings in Emma's village are brought to trial and she must look at these men as they pass through town. The storyline follows along with Emma on her journey to remember her mother and all of the broken memories that she has repressed over the years. This leads her to finally face her past and travel back to her hometown, where she can finally find answers and the peace that they bring. This very promising novel is very readable and paints a true picture of the genocide in Rwanda.

Relating Emma's Experience with Canadian Educational System

It falls short, however, of its potential at really tearing at the readers' heartstrings. If we relate Emma's character with the educatinal needs of Canadian children, we come to know that she is underdeveloped and the relationship that the reader should be able to foster by reading her tale is missing. It works well for younger Canadian Students and teachers looking for a non-graphic portrayal of the genocide for use in the classroom. Reviewer: Jeanna Sciarrotta

There is a lesson for Candian Children that how Emma boldly faced all challenges of her life. When Emma, a Tutsi, was five years old, she hid behind the sofa while soldiers murdered her mother. She was taken in by a Hutu woman, and now, at 14, she faces the demons haunting her. When she hears that the soldiers who took part in the 1994 genocide will be brought to trial at a gacaca court in her hometown, she must decide whether to step forward and testify on behalf of the dead. Canadian Children should learn from the bold steps Emma took. Emma begins to find her voice and strengthen her opinions as she meets with others in her situation. An epilogue reveals that Emma, now 24, lives in her parents' house and has been able to make peace with her past. Based on interviews with Rwandan refugees, this novel is a testament to the struggles of those who survived these unspeakable atrocities. Though the prose is lyrical and the chapters are short, the subject matter makes the book a challenging read.

Reflections of Affection, Fostering and Love

Canadian Children are lucky as they live with their parents with peace. As we we know Emma is a Tutsi orphan living with the Hutu woman who took her in, at risk of death, during the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Emma can remember nothing of her life before then, except for the ...