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This Child Will Be Great: Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa's First Woman President Paperback – Illustrated, 1 May 2010
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“Exceptionally well written, a true story that seems as much a thriller as the remembrances of an ambitious and brave woman. . . . This timely book. . . is a lesson in courage and perseverance.” — Washington Post
An inspirational memoir from Africa’s first elected female president about her improbable rise to international prominence, her fight for political freedom, and her unwavering determination to rebuild her nation—Liberia—in the wake of civil war
In January 2006, after the Republic of Liberia had been racked by fourteen years of brutal civil conflict, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—Africa's "Iron Lady"—was sworn in as president, an event that marked a tremendous turning point in the history of the West African nation.
In this stirring memoir, Sirleaf shares the story of her rise to power, including her early childhood; her experiences with abuse, imprisonment, and exile; and her fight for democracy and social justice. She reveals her determination to succeed in multiple worlds, from her studies in the United States to her work as an international bank executive, to campaigning in some of Liberia's most desperate and war-torn villages and neighborhoods. It is the tale of an outspoken political and social reformer who fought the oppression of dictators and championed change. By telling her story, Sirleaf encourages women everywhere to pursue leadership roles at the highest levels of power, and gives us all hope that we can change the world.
- Print length384 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- Publication date1 May 2010
- Dimensions13.49 x 2.18 x 20.32 cm
- ISBN-100061353485
- ISBN-13978-0061353482
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Review
“This is the incredible story of a woman who spent her life talking tough to the lunatics surrounding her. It is an accessible walk through Liberian history, told by someone who was somehow always in the center of the political storm.” — New York Times Book Review
“Exceptionally well written, a true story that seems as much a thriller as the remembrances of an ambitious and brave woman. . . . This timely book, essential for anyone who hopes to understand West Africa in general and Liberia in particular, is a lesson in courage and perserverance.” — Washington Post
“Sirleaf’s life was remarkable. . . . [A] larger-than-life persona. . . . Sirleaf, who is considered the Obama of Africa, is up to the challenge. . . . With three years left in her presidential term, Sirleaf will have plenty of fodder for a sequel by the time she’s out of office.” — Forbes
“An inspiring inside look at a nation struggling to rebuild itself and the woman now behind those efforts.” — Booklist
“In and out of government, in and out of exile, but consistent in her commitment to Liberia, Sirleaf in her memoir reveals herself to be among the most resilient, determined and courageous as well. She writes with modesty in a calm and measured tone. . . . Widely instructive.” — Publishers Weekly
From the Back Cover
In January 2006, after the Republic of Liberia had been racked by fourteen years of brutal civil conflict, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—Africa's "Iron Lady"—was sworn in as president, an event that marked a tremendous turning point in the history of the West African nation.
In this stirring memoir, Sirleaf shares the story of her rise to power, including her early childhood; her experiences with abuse, imprisonment, and exile; and her fight for democracy and social justice. She reveals her determination to succeed in multiple worlds, from her studies in the United States to her work as an international bank executive, to campaigning in some of Liberia's most desperate and war-torn villages and neighborhoods. It is the tale of an outspoken political and social reformer who fought the oppression of dictators and championed change. By telling her story, Sirleaf encourages women everywhere to pursue leadership roles at the highest levels of power, and gives us all hope that we can change the world.
About the Author
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has received several prestigious awards, including the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom. She holds numerous degrees, among them a master's in public administration from Harvard University. President Sirleaf lives in Monrovia, Liberia.
Product details
- Publisher : Harper Perennial; Illustrated edition (1 May 2010)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 384 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0061353485
- ISBN-13 : 978-0061353482
- Dimensions : 13.49 x 2.18 x 20.32 cm
- Best Sellers Rank: 684,958 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- 510 in African Historical Biographies
- 2,005 in Women in History
- 2,061 in History of Science (Books)
- Customer reviews:
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the book captivating, inspiring, and insightful. They describe it as a remarkable memoir from an extraordinary woman in extraordinary times. Readers appreciate the author's courage, leadership, humility, and tenacity.
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Customers find the book captivating, inspiring, and insightful. They describe it as a well-written autobiography with accurate events described.
"...Leading with poise, humility and elegance. It was not only insightful but taught me ways to improve myself as I walk through many obstacles." Read more
"...While this is an autobiography, what I loved was how much I learned about Liberia - this small West African nation I'd barely heard of - and its..." Read more
"...Well worth reading to give every woman who want to a change for the better." Read more
"Great book. Through words, you are able up see the heart, humanity of a leader. Also, lenses that she sees the world. Thoroughly insightful to me." Read more
Customers find the book's pacing good. They appreciate the story about an extraordinary woman in extraordinary times. The author is described as courageous and able to survive difficult situations. The book provides insights into the tenacity and resilience of the African soul.
"...Leading with poise, humility and elegance. It was not only insightful but taught me ways to improve myself as I walk through many obstacles." Read more
"...It's an extraordinary story about an extraordinary woman in extraordinary times, and a fascinating 4 star read." Read more
"...Extremely courageous woman who survived in very difficult situations and conditions of her country...." Read more
"Great book. Through words, you are able up see the heart, humanity of a leader. Also, lenses that she sees the world. Thoroughly insightful to me." Read more
Top reviews from United Kingdom
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 April 2018To say the book is captivating will be an understatement. From the moment I began reading the book, I was unable to put it down. If I could be half the woman she is then I will do great. Leading with poise, humility and elegance. It was not only insightful but taught me ways to improve myself as I walk through many obstacles.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 9 April 2022I first 'met' Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in the book Women and Leadership by Julia Gillard and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and was inspired to read more about her. While this is an autobiography, what I loved was how much I learned about Liberia - this small West African nation I'd barely heard of - and its tumultuous history. The events were shocking and hard to believe sitting in my safe developed Western world perspective and Ellen's courage and belief in a better Liberia for Liberians was awe-inspiring. It's an extraordinary story about an extraordinary woman in extraordinary times, and a fascinating 4 star read.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 29 December 2014Book received in new condition, well written account of EJ Sirleaf. Extremely courageous woman who survived in very difficult situations and conditions of her country. Well worth reading to give every woman who want to a change for the better.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 May 2015Great book. Through words, you are able up see the heart, humanity of a leader. Also, lenses that she sees the world. Thoroughly insightful to me.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 January 2013Very interesting read for those curious about African history and how this one woman has impacted African politics and the direction of this small country, Liberia.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 29 October 2023Beautiful book, really enjoyed this, Africa's First Female President
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 October 2014A phenomenal woman! Fantastic insight to the tenacity and resiliant African soul.
I loved this book! A great read!
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 March 2024The book is most untrue and filled with self aggrandizement. Too many made up stories
Top reviews from other countries
- D TraoreReviewed in Canada on 16 September 2015
4.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring!
This book inspired me, especially on questions of political leadership for African women.
- GrizzrobReviewed in the United States on 10 January 2015
5.0 out of 5 stars A very well written autobiography - meaningful beyond most political reviews
I finished this ebook with a renewed respect for Pres. Johnson. The text and thoughts were very well composed and fluent. This book is a good read for anyone interested in the past, present and future direction of Liberia and Africa in general. Ms. Johnson spends valuable time and effort describing her unique and courageous views on Liberian policy and historical mistakes.
On a trip to Liberia not too long ago, she was on my same flight and walked around the plane to greet me and the other passengers - I appreciated her down to earth attitude then, and even moreso now after reading this book. Her visceral account of the absolute horrors that have pillaged Liberia was gripping. She wrote it like she claims to live - without fear. I appreciated her blunt accounts of the attitudes of her countrymen - enemies and firiends. There were a very few passages that seemed self promoting and maybe a little grandiose, but Ms. Johnson is a politician, after all.
-
Peter JohannsenReviewed in Germany on 24 November 2012
4.0 out of 5 stars same as above
no time
No time heisst keine Zeit dafür. Die jetzige Präsidentin habe ich in Liberia kennengelernt als sie noch Sekretärin in einer Bank war
-
RumikoReviewed in Japan on 3 April 2012
4.0 out of 5 stars ノーベル平和賞を受賞したリベリア大統領自伝、しかも女性!
ノーベル平和賞を受賞した、リベリアの大統領の自伝です。
彼女はアフリカで初の女性大統領だそうです。
高学歴でプロフェッショナルな履歴を持つ彼女ですが、
10代で結婚し子供を生み続け、夫によるドメスティックバイオレンスも
経験。そんな中勉強を続け、離婚後も経済のプロとして国に貢献、
活躍していきます。
しかし突然のクーデタ、国を追われたり、投獄されてしまったり…
でも彼女は負けず、信念を貫き通し、紆余曲折を経て
大統領へ。「男性だったらもっと出来たと思うか」という質問に、
「男性ならもっと出来なかった。女性だからこそ、ここまで出来たのよ」
と彼女はいいます。鉄の女と呼ばれているようですが、その強さの
底には、あふれる郷土愛、国民への愛でいっぱいだと感じました。
リベリアという国、ひいてはアフリカ自体が日本人にとっては
なかなか馴染みがないものです。
でもこの本で、なぜアフリカに貧困や飢餓、内戦が続くのか、
その一側面を理解することができます。
アフリカの底力を、私たちはこれから見ることができるのかもしれませんね。
- Lucy ScanlonReviewed in the United States on 14 April 2013
4.0 out of 5 stars The woman to lead her small African country into the 21st century
This is an absorbing and well-written story of a fascinating woman who succeeded by luck, by skill, and by seizing the opportunity. This is the most comprehensive account of the history of Liberia that I have read and gives a very understanding picture of the conflicts between the tribal people and the elite settler class. Coming from tribal roots with the education of the privileged puts Mrs Sirleaf in a unique position to carry this country forward in spite of overwhelming odds.Her determination to overcome corruption and social injustice shines through and she seems to grasp the large picture of the many problems while having the skill to solve the details of managing money and personalities and political realities.