The story was captivating. It only made it more intense that it was true. I had a hard time putting it down. I could feel the terror this family endured and how they kept their cool to lead their way out of darkness. The author was not the only hero as he gives credit to others including his mother, brothers and the eldest sister, Rose. My tears fell in several parts because of the human connection as this story drew me in. You don't have to be Haitian or an immigrant to relate to the story. I can't imagine anyone with a heart not connecting to the despair and rejoice of this family. It left me wanting more... The father was a hero not only because he was betrayed by his country for a crime he didn't commit; he could have fled, yet stayed to face execution to save his family. This novel was breathtaking...