Of Beetles and Angels: A Boy's Remarkable Journey from a Refugee Camp to Harvard

Mawi Asgedom

Nov 2008 · Sold by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

About this ebook

Read the remarkable true story of a young boy's journey from civil war in east Africa to a refugee camp in Sudan, to a childhood on welfare in an affluent American suburb, and eventually to a full-tuition scholarship at Harvard University.

Following his father's advice to "treat all people-even the most unsightly beetles-as though they were angels sent from heaven," Mawi overcomes the challenges of language barriers, cultural differences, racial prejudice, and financial disadvantage to build a fulfilling, successful life for himself in his new home.

Of Beetles and Angels is at once a harrowing survival story and a compelling examination of the refugee experience. With hundreds of thousands of copies sold since its initial publication, and as a frequent selection as one book/one school/one community reads, this unforgettable memoir continues to touch and inspire readers. This special expanded fifteenth anniversary edition includes a new introduction and afterword from the author, a discussion guide, and more.

Ratings and reviews

This book had potential to be great, however it fell short. The author was all over the place with his thoughts and the book was not executed well. I was disappointed that the author did not emphasize that much on his experience in Ethiopia and in Harvard. Although this booked lacked in a few areas it was an easy read, and thought some valuable lessons. I also enjoyed the stories the author shared of his childhood and the pictures. Good read!

I had to download this book as part of my school work and i have figured out that this is an amazing book. i surely recommend it to anyone that wants to read about an adventure of a little boys childhood.

A great book full of inspiration. It is full of heart warming and tear felt moments. It really makes you see the good in people. You should definitely go and pick this up.

About the author

Mawi Asgedom graduated from Harvard University and delivered the commencement address at his graduation in 1999. Now 25 years old, he is a successful inspirational speaker for students, community groups, and businesses.