Don't Look Back

A Memoir of War, Survival, and My Journey from Sudan to America

By: Achut Deng, Keely Hutton

Narrated by: Nedra Marie Taylor

In this propulsive memoir from Achut Deng and Keely Hutton, inspired by a harrowing New York Times article, Don't Look Back tells a powerful story showing both the ugliness and the beauty of humanity, and the power of not giving up.

I want life.

After a deadly attack in South Sudan left six-year-old Achut Deng without a family, she lived in refugee camps for ten years, until a refugee relocation program gave her the opportunity to move to the United States. When asked why she should be given a chance to leave the camp, Achut simply told the interviewer: I want life.

But the chance at starting a new life in a new country came with a different set of challenges. Some of them equally deadly. Taught by the strong women in her life not to look back, Achut kept moving forward, overcoming one obstacle after another, facing each day with hope and faith in her future. Yet, just as Achut began to think of the US as her home, a tie to her old life resurfaced, and for the first time, she had no choice but to remember her past.

A Macmillan Audio production from Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

©2022 Achut Deng and Keely Hutton (P)2022 Macmillan Audio

Compelling

My heart goes out to achut and to so many refugees whose equally compelling stories inspire me.

Must read

There are not enough stars to review this book. This is a must read. Difficult to continue at times and most wonderful joy at other times.

Very powerful story

This book was very gripping. I simply could not stop listening to it. I had to continue listening to hear how it all ended. It brought tears to my eyes and smiles to my face as I listened to struggles and joyous moments that Achut went through on her journey to America.

Triumphant

Achut is a remarkable woman who will continue to inspire through example and storytelling. Her presence, like that of other people from many nations, makes our country more beautiful and strong. She’s a survivor and a gift! Thank you, Achut.

incredible book....I couldn't put it down

Wow....just wow. I haven't left a review in years but had to for this amazing story of triumph. beautifully written and detailed...I felt like I was journeying with Akot as she endured and overcame.