Ismail Muse believes in the dream of a Greater Somalia, but that belief is put to the test in 1977 when blood was spilled in the Ogaden desert. The war changes him forever. He comes back home and begins another battle: to protect his family and to move his only child to safety.
Halima, Ismail’s daughter, shapes her entire life around helping her parents survive what almost killed them. But when she finally keeps her promise, everything is taken away in an instant. And just like her father, she has to fight.
This is a story about the hills of Hargeisa, the beaches of Mogadishu, and the beauty of Somalia. It is the duality of humankind, the extremes of love, hope, survival, and how the quest for power can forever change the course of history.
Linda (verified owner) –
Fantastic writing, that painted such a stark and realistic picture. I learned a lot and the story left me with lots to reflect upon about human beings, family, and the effects of politics on the people it is supposed to be for.
I am so proud of this Kenyan writer. I highly recommend this book.
Linda (verified owner) –
In Once There Wad a Star, Meshack Yobby masterfully weaves a tale that gives one compassion for the human being, the human being with hopes and beliefs who is just trying to lead life and care for a family the best they know. And then he drenches you with a healthy dose of reality, several times, starkly illuminating the effects of poor or selfish or power-hungry leadership on the ordinary person.
I really liked the characters in the book, beginning with Ismael Muse, whose family we follow in this story. The writing is really good.
The amount of research that must have gone into the process of writing this book is staggering. I discovered just how little I actually know about Somalia, and the historical connections with her neighbours.
This is an incredible debut novel. I highly recommend it.
George Pacho –
‘Once there was a Star’ is captivating and eye opening at how ethereal our percieved happiness is. With every flip of the page, the violence potrayed in the book is reminiscent of today’s rot in the society where the power hungry, dishonest politians and crooked gorvernmet officials continuously loot, maim and kill our future with no regard. The book is emotionally provocative and allows a reader to get in touch with all emotions known to man. I thorougly enjoyed the book, albeit saddening it was.