Alive in the Killing Fields

Alive in the Killing Fields
By Nawuth Keat
National Geographic, 2009. 127 pgs. Young Adult Nonfiction

When Nawuth Keat was nine years old, his life changed forever. The Khmer Rouge (Red Communists) were gaining control and spreading terror in Cambodia, and Keat's family was targeted by the group. After the murder of several of his family members, Keat and his remaining relatives were forced to work for the Khmer Rouge doing farming projects while living on only a minimal amount of food. Facing starvation, Keat had to be creative in how to obtain food to keep himself and his loved ones alive.

Keat's story is a thought-provoking introduction to Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge genocide. While it focuses on his life, not providing an overview of the full impact of the Khmer Rouge regime, it will likely entice readers to learn more about the Cambodian people and the brutality they faced.

AE