Deogratias, A Tale of Rwanda by J.P. Stassen

Deogratias, A Tale of Rwanda

by J.P. Stassen

Now with a new introduction by Beata Umubyeyi Mairesse.

The the harrowing tale of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda unfolds, as seen through the eyes of a boy named Deogratias. Stassen's tale takes us back and forth in time, showing only before and after the killings - and inexorably revealing the grip of madness they had on one boy and his country.

Deogratias is difficult, beautiful, honest, and heartbreaking, this is a major work by a masterful artist. And now as a reissue, it's getting a second chance to impact new readers.

Reviewed by pamela on

3 of 5 stars

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I don't really feel capable of giving this a full review without first reading more about the Rwandan Genocide. I can say that the art didn't really feel emotive enough for the harrowing subject matter. It's not a happy story. It's not an easy read. But from a purely literary standpoint, I didn't feel that it told me enough to really understand the character and so I didn't feel 100% engaged, which is essential for a subject like this one.

When I have time I'm going to go back and read some non-fiction on the subject and try and revisit this.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 5 July, 2018: Finished reading
  • 5 July, 2018: Reviewed