A memoir by U Sam Oeur with Ken McCullough
May 1, 2005 • 6 x 9 • 320 pages • 978-1-56689-167-1
The first memoir from a pre-Khmer Rouge government official who miraculously survived the Cambodian killing fields.
Death by execution, death by disease, and death by starvation are the three wildernesses Cambodians were forced to traverse during the Khmer Rouge regime. In a harrowing but ultimately triumphant affirmation of the human spirit, celebrated Cambodian poet U Sam Oeur narrates his incredible life story, testifies to the horrors of genocide, and shares his fervent prayers for peace and freedom through the process of democracy.
Crossing Three Wildernesses is a personal account of survival, an astute political analysis, and a beautiful illustration of the Cambodian culture—its people, myths, and traditions. In a world still plagued by the atrocities of war, this remarkable memoir is a moving call to freedom and a passionate plea for peace.
About the Author
U Sam Oeur grew up in a Cambodian farming family. After studying in the US, he served in the Cambodian government, becoming part of the Cambodian delegation to the UN. When Pol Pot assumed power in 1975, Oeur, along with his wife and son, survived the killing fields while feigning illiteracy in six forced-labor camps. A devout Buddhist, Oeur now lives in Texas.
Poet and translator Ken McCullough’s recent books include Walking Backwards and Obsidian Point. He has received numerous awards for his poetry including a Pablo Neruda Award, Galway Kinnell Poetry Award, and New Millenium Poetry Award. He translated U Sam Oeur’s Sacred Vows and wrote the lyrics for the chamber opera, "The Krasang Tree," based on Oeur’s poetry and experiences.
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