Slave: My True Story

Mende Nazer · Damien Lewis

Apr 2009 · Sold by PublicAffairs

About this ebook

Mende Nazer lost her childhood at age twelve, when she was sold into slavery. It all began one horrific night in 1993, when Arab raiders swept through her Nuba village, murdering the adults and rounding up thirty-one children, including Mende.

Mende was sold to a wealthy Arab family who lived in Sudan's capital city, Khartoum. So began her dark years of enslavement. Her Arab owners called her "Yebit," or "black slave." She called them "master." She was subjected to appalling physical, sexual, and mental abuse. She slept in a shed and ate the family leftovers like a dog. She had no rights, no freedom, and no life of her own.

Normally, Mende's story never would have come to light. But seven years after she was seized and sold into slavery, she was sent to work for another master-a diplomat working in the United Kingdom. In London, she managed to make contact with other Sudanese, who took pity on her. In September 2000, she made a dramatic break for freedom.

Slave is a story almost beyond belief. It depicts the strength and dignity of the Nuba tribe. It recounts the savage way in which the Nuba and their ancient culture are being destroyed by a secret modern-day trade in slaves. Most of all, it is a remarkable testimony to one young woman's unbreakable spirit and tremendous courage.

Ratings and reviews

Dive into an enchanting masterpiece that ignites the heart and soul – "Slave: My True Story." Mende Nazer's eloquent narrative transports you to the heart of the Nuba Tribe, nestled in the ethereal Nuba Mountains of Sudan. With meticulous attention to detail, Nazer weaves a tapestry so immersive, you'll swear you've wandered its dusty paths and felt its tribal rhythms. But this isn't just a story; it's an invitation, a whispered secret that draws you into the embrace of Mende's family, making you a cherished member of the tribe and the captivating pulse of village life. Yet, as daylight dims, shadows lengthen, and tragedy descends, the narrative crescendos into an unbearable ache. The pages quiver as the unspeakable unfolds by the Mujahideen – a ruthless symphony of savagery and criminality etched into each syllable. Child trafficking, so prevalent even in 2023, haunts the pages, compelling you to action that will linger, resonate, and inspire long after the final word has been read.

This book is really good... after reading Sista Soulja's "Midnight" books about a boy who came to New York at 7 years old with his pregnant mother from Sudan and their culture and trying to adapt to American society, yet still staying so rich in his faith and culture... it was very intriguing to me. This book is satisfying that even further.

This book is sooo interesting;D but im only 13:'( i cant exactly pay for this book -.- i read it at skwl i lurved ih<3

About the author

Mende Nazer is the author of the international bestselling autobiography Slave that has touched millions of lives and called many to action. Her story has gone on to inspire the motion picture I Am Slave and the stage adaptation of her life, Slave - A Question of Freedom.

Damien Lewis is a lifelong dog lover and award-winning writer who spent twenty years reporting from war, disaster, and conflict zones for the BBC and other global news organizations. He is the bestselling author of more than twenty books, many of which are being adapted into films or television series, including military history, thrillers, and several acclaimed memoirs about military working dogs. Lewis lives in Dorchester, England, with his family and retired assistance dog black Labrador Moxie.