In reading this I felt for Malika and her family. When the story ended I was left wanting to know more about how their lives were after they were released and tried to integrate back into society.

I am not usually one to read non-fiction, but I chanced this book after seeing the Oprah's Book Club stamp (though I usually don't put a whole lot of faith in that) and reading the teaser on the back. What an unbelievable book - I'm so glad I picked it up. Actually, once I started, I couldn't put it down from the first page onwards. It's hard to imagine what Malika and her family suffered for so long. I often found myself looking at the dates and saying, wow, I was doing this when they were still in that place. Completely incredible. If you're unsure about picking up this book, don't hesitate, you won't be sorry.

My first thoughts upon completing this novel was that it is truly inconceivable how something so horrible could happen in today's day and age. Malika Oufkir recounts the horrors of what her family went through while speaking so proudly and fondly of her ethnic background. For a woman who has been a prisoner for the majority of her life, it is truly incredible how far she has come. She is a proud and extremely strong woman who has surpassed the horrors of prison, abuse, starvation and abandonment. It is unbelievable how one person's determination to survive led to her family's escape after over 17 years in prison. The author, Michelle Fitousee, does an extraordinary job of detailing the events of this tormented family who survived the terrors of prison through their humour, courage, and extreme will to live. This story is truly breathtaking and will make any reading appreciate freedom and the everyday moments which we take for granted.

I love the story, which is based on a true story, it come under a new name, stolen lives . it's nothing what i have ever read before, and couldn't put it down. i too honestly would love to meet the author. Best of luck for her future. samiun

I love this book.. Shows how sheer determination over situation prevails..how the love they each had for each other pulled them through their experience! Simply amazing!

This book is incredible. As a society I finally had a chance to see how spoiled we are, pampered if you will, in comparison to the rest of the world. While I realize that so many of us are truly good, this shows the power that bad has over us. It made me rethink my youth, what was so bad about having a zit or a bad grade in science class, someone out there was really suffering. And she made it through because of her family and for her family. Although parts of this book leave me with questions, I know those parts were left out to preserve dignity. I respect this book, this life. I think everyone should learn something from it.

Finally...a book that shows the intensity of a family's life in countries like the one in the story... this is an intensive book that shows how cruel people can be in some countries...read it ... you will find yourself crying and weeping with joy... read this book trust me...at Chapters they have a very good price on it!

This is honestly, the best book i have ever read! I can't believe everything she had to go through... She is an amazing person, i wish i could meet her one day... Everyone should read this book, it's hard to believe that it's not fiction!!!

I think this book is very inspirational for people that are going through things like Malika, and having to be strong for herbrothers and sisters.

This book had me hooked from the beginning. Knowing that it's a real story made it even more gripping. How inspiring to read a story where the will to live can conquer terrifying abuses of power!