Synopses & Reviews
In January 2006, after the Republic of Liberia had been racked by fourteen years of brutal civil conflict, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—Africa's "Iron Lady"—was sworn in as president, an event that marked a tremendous turning point in the history of the West African nation.
In this stirring memoir, Sirleaf shares the inside story of her rise to power, including her early childhood; her experiences with abuse, imprisonment, and exile; and her fight for democracy and social justice. This compelling tale of survival reveals Sirleaf's determination to succeed in multiple worlds: from her studies in the United States to her work as an international bank executive to her election campaigning in some of Liberia's most desperate and war-torn villages and neighborhoods. It is also the story of an outspoken political and social reformer who, despite danger, fought the oppression of dictators and championed change. By sharing her story, Sirleaf encourages women everywhere to pursue leadership roles at the highest levels of power, and gives us all hope that, with perseverance, we can change the world.
Review
“This is the incredible story of a woman who spent her life talking tough to the lunatics surrounding her. It is an accessible walk through Liberian history, told by someone who was somehow always in the center of the political storm.” New York Times Book Review
Review
“Exceptionally well written, a true story that seems as much a thriller as the remembrances of an ambitious and brave woman. . . . This timely book, essential for anyone who hopes to understand West Africa in general and Liberia in particular, is a lesson in courage and perserverance.” Washington Post
Review
“An inspiring inside look at a nation struggling to rebuild itself and the woman now behind those efforts.” Booklist
Review
"The 2006 election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as Liberia's first woman president — the first in all of Africa! — is one of the few uncontested bright spots in the turbulent recent history of that country....Becoming president in postwar Liberia was pure euphoria, she says, the most she could hope for. At the same time, 'Despair and resignation stared many of our citizens in the face,' she writes. 'All of this was as true on inauguration day as it had been the day before and as it would be the day after.'" Erin Aubry Kaplan, Ms. Magazine (read the entire )
Synopsis
“The first thing to be said about Ellen Johnson Sirleafs
This Child Will Be Great is that it is exceptionally well written, a true story that seems as much a thriller as the remembrances of an ambitious and brave woman. . . . This timely book, essential for anyone who hopes to understand West Africa in general and Liberia in particular, is a lesson in courage and perseverance.”
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Washington Post From Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—Africas first elected female president—comes an inspirational memoir about her improbable rise to international prominence, her fight for political freedom, and her unwavering determination to rebuild Liberia in the wake of civil war.
About the Author
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has received several prestigious awards, including the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom. She holds numerous degrees, among them a master's in public administration from Harvard University. President Sirleaf lives in Monrovia, Liberia.