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First They Killed My Father

A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

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First They Killed My Father

By: Loung Ung
Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
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About this listen

One of seven children of a high-ranking government official, Loung Ung lived a privileged life in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh until the age of five. Then, in April 1975, Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge army stormed into the city, forcing Ung's family to flee and, eventually, to disperse. Loung was trained as a child soldier in a work camp for orphans, her siblings were sent to labor camps, and those who survived the horrors would not be reunited until the Khmer Rouge was destroyed. Harrowing yet hopeful, Loung's powerful story is an unforgettable account of a family shaken and shattered, yet miraculously sustained by courage and love in the face of unspeakable brutality.

©2000 Loung Ung (P)2011 Tantor Asia Historical Military & War Politicians Politics & Activism Southeast Asia Women

Critic Reviews

"Ung's memoir should serve as a reminder that some history is best not left just to historians but to those left standing when the terror ends." ( Booklist)
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This is an incredible story of one person's family struggle through an inhumane time. A must read so we do not forget.

Despair and Love

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Speechless after such a intense life for a little girl who proved to be strong as her Pa always thought she would be.

One of the best books I have had read!

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could not stop listening,once I started this book, It had me in tears, more times than I'm willing to admit.

Compelling and Beautiful told

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A beautifully written and narrated account. At times I found this story hard to listen too simply because it is just so terrible what humans will do to each other.

If you are interested in learning about the history of Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge and the impact on a family and the broader society then I highly recommend this book.

Heartbreaking and Life Affirming

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after visiting Cambodia previously it was riveting to listen to the first hand account from someone who was actually there. so sad in places but an amazing life story.

Best book I have listened to in a long while.

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