My Book Review of 'Raammis irraa Huurso' by Abbaa Urjii (Part 1):

Got through the first chapter of the book. Very powerful writing and true stories related by veterans. The first chapter was written from the perspective of a martyred OLF soldier being carried on the back of his comrade and highschool sweetheart. She carried him to a nearby forest and refused to leave him behind despite the commanders orders. The story went through their time together in school, and some of their risky experiences in the bush. Such as one incident where he escaped certain death at a checkpoint outside of Dirre Dhawa while smuggling rebel supplies. Abbaa Urjii's descriptive writing makes you feel as though you're standing right there in the midday heat watching Raammiso's stomach churn as the soldier walks over to the vehicle to search his supplies.
The chapter closes with commander Caalaa dragging Raammisoo's sweetheart away from his corpse and escaping before the enemies arrive and discover his body hidden under a tree. Raammisoo reflects "I survived through situations where I'd given up all hope of life. Only for my final resting place to be here, far from home in a place I've never heard of, and my family will never find me." It makes you think about how many bright youth with promising futures gave their lives to see the Oromo people live with dignity on their land. We all know that. But this book puts you right there and makes you see it through their eyes. It's a must read.

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