Beneath the Tamarind Tree

A Story of Courage, Family, and the Lost Schoolgirls of Boko Haram

By: Isha Sesay

Narrated by: Isha Sesay

The first definitive account of Boko Haram’s abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, their years in captivity, and why this story still matters - by celebrated international journalist Isha Sesay.

The kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram in 2014 made global headlines. From poor Nigerian families, these girls had defied the odds and pursued an education, but daring to dream resulted in one of the most high-profile abductions in modern history. Award-winning CNN anchor Isha Sesay was on the front lines as the story broke, and when 21 of the girls were released, she was the only journalist to accompany them on their dangerous journey back home.

In Beneath the Tamarind Tree, having developed unprecedented access to the Chibok girls, Sesay shares an intimate account of the night Boko Haram attacked, exclusive details about their years in captivity, and their daring tales of escape. We meet Priscilla who dreamt of becoming a doctor, Saa who juggled schoolwork with family obligations, Mary who fought constant homesickness to stay in school, and Dorcas who planned to be the first in her family to get a college degree.

Sesay delves into the inadequate Nigerian government response to the kidnapping, while synthesizing lessons about global national security. She also reminds us of the personal sacrifice required of journalists to bring us the truth, at a time of growing mistrust of the media. Beneath the Tamarind Tree is a gripping listen and a story of resilience with a soaring message of hope at its core, reminding us of the ever-present truth that progress for all of us hinges on unleashing the potential of women.

Gripping

Excellent story. I'd heard about this story but didn't know the extent. This was an excellent story, engaging and gripping from beginning to end. Shows the resilience of the human spirit.

Journalism mixed with personal narrative

The Chibok kidnappings were given less coverage than they deserved in the U.S., and this book helps fill in some of the gaps from the past. Equally important, the book continues to raise awareness of Islamic extremism and the real and continued threat of terrorism, regardless of whether or not people have tired of hearing about it (particularly in the west where neither are daily threats to our livelihood or comfort).

Ms. Sesay tells the story of these young women well, however a significant portion of the book is used to tell her own story and give her own views and opinions. Though she certainly has a right to do so, journalism’s aim is always to be a neutral observer, presenting the facts and first hand accounts of those involved. The book’s frequent use of the first person and personal narrative detract from the stories of the young women who endured such immense trials and hardship.

Towards the later half of the book, I found myself skipping through large chunks to get back to the story of the girls. It is not that Ms. Sesay’s personal stories are not worthy of being told or not interesting; it’s because I purchased this book to hear the girls’ stories, not those of the journalists relaying them. I would’ve preferred she further explore why some girls like Priscilla and Leah had the strength and willingness to bravely risk martyrdom while others, at different times, could no longer endure the threats of their oppressors and acquiesced.

Much needed read!

A very detailed account of the kidnapped school girls in Nigeria. Unbelievable that to date there are still some girls missing!

Gradebook

Very powerful story I know it’s true and I think it should be made into a movie I would like to comment to the author but I don’t know how to locator it was a great book

Loved it

Love every word. Appreciated that the author made sure to explain the cultural differences and the politics of the country in relation to the events.