I read this book a few years ago, but still remember certain sections of the book. I bought it as a "Dover Thrift Edition," and was struck by how well the story was written and how the reader connected with the main character, even though I hadn't thought it would be my type of book. This book made me want to search out other books by Willa Cather.

The book is beautifully and compellingly written by David Oliver Relin; after reading a few random pages to my boyfriend he was very impressed and wanted to borrow my book to read it himself. The story told is inspiring; full of sacrifice for good, challenges overcome, and hope and peace overcoming fear and violence. The accomplishments of Greg Mortenson and the Central Asia Institute in educating children, empowering girls and women, and providing relief to the sick and refugees are mind-boggling. This book is based on real events and real people, and yet was a page turner. On top of all that, the present day relevance and urgency of the story told in the book make this book even more compelling. I am planning on giving it as a Christmas gift and would recommend this book to anyone.