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A Voice in the Darkness: Memoir of a Rwandan Genocide Survivor
"A Voice in the Memoir of a Rwandan Genocide" is not just a story of survival, but a beacon of resilience, perseverance, and hope. The award-winning memoir by renowned author and human rights advocate, Jeanne Celestine Lakin, chronicles her harrowing survival during the darkest days of Rwanda, and her transformative journey to becoming a powerful voice for the voiceless.Jeanne was a mere child when the genocide erupted, forcing her and her siblings into the wilderness, running from violent militias. Despite the relentless brutality and the tragic loss of her family, Jeanne found in herself a strength that not only ensured her survival but also fueled her relentless pursuit of education and justice.She transformed her life from a genocide survivor to a celebrated humanitarian, earning a master's degree in Public Administration and Public Policy and a bachelor's degree in International Relations. Today, she sits as Chairwoman for the ODIHR International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council (ISTAC), where she is a formidable force against human trafficking on a global scale. Her work has had significant impact at United Nations events and her innovative NGO, One Million Orphans, provides sustainable support to vulnerable children worldwide.In the midst of her busy life fighting for human rights, Jeanne found time to pen "A Voice in the Darkness." Her memoir gained significant attention, even being featured in President George W. Bush's book, "Out of Many, Portraits of America’s Immigrants." Jeanne also serves as the Manager of Disability Services for Lone Star College, championing inclusivity and accessibility in education. As a distinguished member of the Washington Speakers Bureau (WSB), her speeches inspire countless individuals.Now residing in the Greater Houston area with her husband, Paul, and their son, Samuel, Jeanne's journey continues to illuminate the transformative power of resilience, forgiveness, and the immigrant experience. Her memoir, "A Voice in the Darkness," is a testament to this journey.To own a piece of Jeanne's inspirational journey, visit www.avoiceinthedarkness.org for author-signed copies or email jeanne@avoiceinthedarkness.org for discounts on bulk orders. Embrace the hope and resilience encapsulated in her story and let it inspire you and your community today.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2018
36 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 5, 2023
I met Jeanne at my daughter's college. She helped her with accommodations for dyscalculia. The last year, I've been reading more memoirs so when I stepped into her office and saw the memoir on her shelf, it caught my eye. I didn't realize it was her on the cover until she told me. I figured since I'd met the author, I should check it out. In the past. I'd stayed away from memoirs because they can be so raw and I hate being emotional. Jeanne's story was definitely that. Oh, how my heart hurts for her and her family and everyone affected by the genocide on both sides. I think it's incredible how she acknowledged the impact killing had on those who killed and how she sought to forgive them. She forgave those who betrayed her and her family, the men who raped her. and people who, instead of caring for her as they should've, took advantage of her. I am amazed at her faith in God and her gratitude for His presence throughout her life. I can clearly see she heard the Voice of God guiding her. What a testament to His existence and love for His children. I marvel that almost all of her immediate family survived. I'm overjoyed she found her Love and found family. I feel blessed to have heard Jeanne's story.
August 12, 2021
My audiobook pace has slowed over the past year, but I am so glad I made room for this memoir. A Voice in the Darkness was horrifying and gut-wrenching yet sweet and touching at the same time. I kept marveling at the strength of mind and character Jeanne possessed and still possesses; it is almost unbelievable that after what she went through--at age 9, mind you--that she was able to write her story, and write it so well. I sometimes take a while to get through books, but not this one. I was obsessed with the story, and even though I knew she survived, the horror and fear was palpable. Jeanne's writing is excellent, but the narration by Sara Van Beckum gave the story movement and heart. Her narration was perfect--never intrusive or overly dramatic, and pitched to match each scene.
I highly recommend this memoir of the Rwandan genocide, both because it's a story the world should not forget, and because Jeanne Lakin's strength of character and human dignity were not broken under circumstances that few would survive, never mind enough to build a new life.
I highly recommend this memoir of the Rwandan genocide, both because it's a story the world should not forget, and because Jeanne Lakin's strength of character and human dignity were not broken under circumstances that few would survive, never mind enough to build a new life.
December 29, 2019
It normally takes me a long time to finish a non-audio book, but I couldn’t put this one by Jeanne Celestine Lakin down and I’ve even started reading it again (which I don’t think I’ve ever done). Jeanne is an orphaned survivor of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. In this incredibly well-written memoir, she recounts her survival, numerous miraculous escapes from death and the dehumanizing circumstances she and all the Tutsi’s endured during those atrocious 3 months. A true page-turner, I highly recommend it.!
February 1, 2019
I could not put it down. This is such an important story of courage, resilience and mostly of this brilliant little girl and the voices that guided her. The story is beautifully written, creating a picture that is both horrific and inspiring. Even though there is a happy ending, I found myself weeping, and still am, because her story touched every part of my being. In today's world, you must read this book. I am buying copies to share.
July 12, 2019
Her true story is a compelling plea to end genocide. I am grateful for Jeanne Celestine Lakin telling her story which is the story of the country of Rwanda during an epic genocide.
August 16, 2021
A heartbreaking tale of a child who survived genocide, sexual abuse and being orphaned. Jeanne didn't have an advocate when she was young, but she is now one for others.
February 5, 2024
Absolutely spectacular and mindblowingly impossible to wrap your head around. I highly recommend this work. Briefly describing it alone will bring you to tears.
July 24, 2019
I began reading this book knowing that it would be difficult at times. It was even harder than I imagined. Lakin’s experiences during the Rwandan genocide are darker and more painful that I could have imagined. What I didn’t expect was her ability to forgive and to constantly work to better her life and enhance the lives of those around her. The darkest parts of humanity may be present within the pages of this book but Lakin herself shows that we are also capable of the truly extraordinary. My sincerest admiration to the author for being such an inspiration and my gratitude to her for sharing her story.
May 24, 2021
This is a heartbreaking true story of not only how horrible humans can be to one another, but also of how to move past the trauma of these atrocities and forgive. It gives hope for the future, if only we learn from the mistakes of the past.
Excellent read, written by a beautiful soul.
Highly recommended.
Excellent read, written by a beautiful soul.
Highly recommended.
October 25, 2018
A poignant account of the Rwandan genocide from the perspective of a child, this story and the perspective it provides are incredibly important. Jeanne writes powerfully about her own struggles for healing and forgiveness, and lays out a powerful narrative of hope and love for survivors.
December 31, 2018
This is a must-read. Powerful, candid, approach to understanding genocide.
February 1, 2019
Very moving. Powerful. Historically relevant. Highly recommended. Should be a best seller!
January 16, 2021
Amazing!
A very thought provoking, if not maddening, book. I ran the full gamut of emotions while reading this memoir. It was hard to read at times.
The writing is beautiful.
A very thought provoking, if not maddening, book. I ran the full gamut of emotions while reading this memoir. It was hard to read at times.
The writing is beautiful.
December 11, 2024
“As I lay awake, I realized there was something about nature that revealed God's presence despite all the chaos around us.”
This quote perfectly describes the central thesis of Jeanne Celestine Lakin's biography, 'A Voice In Darkness', an emotionally tragic yet inspirational life story that shows the 1994 Tutsi genocide from the perspective of a child survivor. The book catalogs Jeanne's personal experience during the 1994 Tutsi genocide, a historical tragedy she had witnessed at the mere age of three, She had to take on many mature responsibilities or challenges she wasn't set up for, such as taking care of her younger siblings and washing after her dishes, under the pressures of oppression.
As it is sequentially structured, this book will place your point of view into Jeanne's, experiencing the emotional confusion she felt as she goes through trial and error to survive, in almost exact detail. A major factor that adds to Jeanne's struggle is that her parents were both at risk during the initial plane crash that began the genocide. So unfortunately, she abruptly had to leave her home, with the purpose of hiding at her Aunt's home for protection, while taking care of her two younger twins, Teddy and Tera. The relationship between young Jeanne and her siblings was a well-intentioned yet rough responsibility that Jeanne had to grasp at age three. Signifying the struggle she had to protect her siblings' innocence is an excerpt from Chapter 7, page 40 "It was clear that the victims were scrambling for their lives by the way they divided themselves. There was no way to shield Teddy and Tera from seeing the horror. It was spread in the open, right before their eyes." Jeanne's description of the tragedy in Rwanda is very detailed and unnerving, with phrasing such as "It was clear" and "the way they divided themselves." showcasing her memory of the violence upon her people. On top of this, Jeanne and her twin siblings had to flee her Aunt's house, her only other option being to disguise themselves while living under a Hutu military force known as the Furuah, with a key example is in Chapter 18, page 135 in which Teta made one minor cough and enraged Furuah.
From this point onwards within the book are many elements that won't be for the faint of heart, yet its's a very solid read nevertheless. For as tragic as Jeanne's story is, a major element of it is Jeanne's challenge with holding onto religious beliefs. Jeanne being a survivor of assault and genocide against her race, couldn't have just let her trauma and horrific childhood be untold. I feel like this book is important to many people in our nation, as even now we deal with prejudice and ignore it. Reading this book, you will be exposed to a tragic, personal yet uplifting story. Jeanne's book truly shows a light presence in the chaos around us.
This quote perfectly describes the central thesis of Jeanne Celestine Lakin's biography, 'A Voice In Darkness', an emotionally tragic yet inspirational life story that shows the 1994 Tutsi genocide from the perspective of a child survivor. The book catalogs Jeanne's personal experience during the 1994 Tutsi genocide, a historical tragedy she had witnessed at the mere age of three, She had to take on many mature responsibilities or challenges she wasn't set up for, such as taking care of her younger siblings and washing after her dishes, under the pressures of oppression.
As it is sequentially structured, this book will place your point of view into Jeanne's, experiencing the emotional confusion she felt as she goes through trial and error to survive, in almost exact detail. A major factor that adds to Jeanne's struggle is that her parents were both at risk during the initial plane crash that began the genocide. So unfortunately, she abruptly had to leave her home, with the purpose of hiding at her Aunt's home for protection, while taking care of her two younger twins, Teddy and Tera. The relationship between young Jeanne and her siblings was a well-intentioned yet rough responsibility that Jeanne had to grasp at age three. Signifying the struggle she had to protect her siblings' innocence is an excerpt from Chapter 7, page 40 "It was clear that the victims were scrambling for their lives by the way they divided themselves. There was no way to shield Teddy and Tera from seeing the horror. It was spread in the open, right before their eyes." Jeanne's description of the tragedy in Rwanda is very detailed and unnerving, with phrasing such as "It was clear" and "the way they divided themselves." showcasing her memory of the violence upon her people. On top of this, Jeanne and her twin siblings had to flee her Aunt's house, her only other option being to disguise themselves while living under a Hutu military force known as the Furuah, with a key example is in Chapter 18, page 135 in which Teta made one minor cough and enraged Furuah.
From this point onwards within the book are many elements that won't be for the faint of heart, yet its's a very solid read nevertheless. For as tragic as Jeanne's story is, a major element of it is Jeanne's challenge with holding onto religious beliefs. Jeanne being a survivor of assault and genocide against her race, couldn't have just let her trauma and horrific childhood be untold. I feel like this book is important to many people in our nation, as even now we deal with prejudice and ignore it. Reading this book, you will be exposed to a tragic, personal yet uplifting story. Jeanne's book truly shows a light presence in the chaos around us.
July 13, 2022
This is truly a book worth consideration. I'm not very good at English, so I'm afraid to read any books in this language. At first, I just bought and read it because it was a required book for my college English class. However, when I started reading, I didn't realize that I had been absorbed in it for hours and read more than half the book in the first evening. I ended up reading the entire book in just two days. But you should consider carefully, because the book contains pieces of very sorrow memories of the author. I had cried twice during the reading and fell into a lifeless state all day long after finishing it. Readers will be surprised by her own extraordinary will to live. I do not think many people are brave enough to overcome that much suffering. Overtaking all that is the desire to live, an unbelievable powerful spirit. I do not know how such a ten-year-old girl like her can be so extraordinary. More than the sympathy I have for her during the haunting pages of the book only can be an absolute admiration for her enduring vitality, besides her remarkable wisdom and survival abilities. Sometimes in life, I and many other people have to endure unbelievably so much pressure. However, her story influenced me a lot and give me the strength to keep trying, and I truly respect and am grateful.
April 16, 2025
5/5, Beautiful book about resilience and trauma.
I was assigned this memoir for my English class this semester, and have finally finished it. Jeanne’s storytelling was incredible and I could almost picture the scenes in my head. Before this memoir, I was not aware of the Rwanda genocide nor the horrors that transpired. I have closed this book with a better understanding and perspective on genocide, and how horrific it can truly be.
I heard stories of Congo or Palestine, I struggled to fully comprehend what was happening in those countries. Of children’s bodies cut up and sold in bags, of hospitals full of injured civilians being bombed for no good reason. As I read ‘A voice in the Darkness,’ I learned how isolated a genocide can be. The World stops for them but we continuing going, as if nothing is happening.
Jeanne is incredibly strong and was able to take her pain of losing her parents, home, and a peaceful life before genocide, and turn it into something bigger. To tell others the horrors she witnessed and teach others to love one another regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or cultural background.
I was assigned this memoir for my English class this semester, and have finally finished it. Jeanne’s storytelling was incredible and I could almost picture the scenes in my head. Before this memoir, I was not aware of the Rwanda genocide nor the horrors that transpired. I have closed this book with a better understanding and perspective on genocide, and how horrific it can truly be.
I heard stories of Congo or Palestine, I struggled to fully comprehend what was happening in those countries. Of children’s bodies cut up and sold in bags, of hospitals full of injured civilians being bombed for no good reason. As I read ‘A voice in the Darkness,’ I learned how isolated a genocide can be. The World stops for them but we continuing going, as if nothing is happening.
Jeanne is incredibly strong and was able to take her pain of losing her parents, home, and a peaceful life before genocide, and turn it into something bigger. To tell others the horrors she witnessed and teach others to love one another regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or cultural background.
April 3, 2023
I bought this book because I heard the author when she was given an award at our State DAR meeting. She gave a brief presentation on her life during the Rwandan civil war. I was fascinated with her story and wanted to know how she came out of Rwanda and to America. Through most of the book she recounts her life as a young 10 year old Tutsi girl. From a happy life in a large family, Jeanne had to flee for her life along with her younger twin sisters. The children lived hidden in bushes and fields without food, shelter, or clean clothing. There was around every bend potential danger and horror for the three children. This book really shed some light on a period in African history that was absolutely terrible and has given a face to the people who had to undergo such horror. I found this book to be well written and absolutely fascinating. It was a miracle of God for Jeanne to have survived along with most of her siblings. I definitely would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read about a person persevering and overcoming a desperate situation.
December 22, 2025
Absolutely inspirational. I thought i might find it a bit of a spoiler to know she obviously survived. However the story is told with such sincerely, heartache and genuine love for humanity that as atrocious the genocide abuse and killings were, what shines through is the human resilience, the possibility of still seeing love in the midst of inhumane hatred and torture. It was also a rude reminder that abuse and atrocities don’t just happen in “your country” like Africa or sone far flung country but the so called “civilized” people in “developed countries” are similarly cruel. I read it in preparation to go to Rwanda on holiday and it has given me a new respect for the country, a people that came thru such tragedy but now is one of the safest and sexually progressive countries in Africa. I almost never give five stars but the very genuine forgiveness, love and ability to keep seeing other humans as human beings, flows abundantly through her words and actions. It is sacrilegious not to.
November 18, 2025
From Darkness to Light
Oh my, it was not a comfortable story to read, but Jeanne had to live in that darkness for many years. Her story is not all dark, God showed his intervening hands countless times as she walked that dark journey. As I read, I was curious what God might say to the abusers. They had the opportunity to do good and show care and compassion, instead they chose depravity. This story just made me wonder how many other souls are living thru such a conditions be it due to war, lost parents, addiction, lack or whatever. These are humans and deserve respect and compassion regardless of their station im life.May God shed His light and grant more victorious outcomes to the innocent and vulnerable children, young adults and women that suffer at the hands of the merciless.
Oh my, it was not a comfortable story to read, but Jeanne had to live in that darkness for many years. Her story is not all dark, God showed his intervening hands countless times as she walked that dark journey. As I read, I was curious what God might say to the abusers. They had the opportunity to do good and show care and compassion, instead they chose depravity. This story just made me wonder how many other souls are living thru such a conditions be it due to war, lost parents, addiction, lack or whatever. These are humans and deserve respect and compassion regardless of their station im life.May God shed His light and grant more victorious outcomes to the innocent and vulnerable children, young adults and women that suffer at the hands of the merciless.
April 22, 2023
The fact that this woman could have experienced the horrors she went through as a child and still be a gracious and loving Christian woman is astounding. I had the privilege of meeting Jeanne Lakin at a conference and bought her book then. I was very impressed with her after hearing her speak and even more so after meeting her and reading her story. I’ve read many books about children and adults who have experienced horrible childhoods or the horrors of war, but this is the most amazing of them all. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about history (1994) or finds it rewarding to read about someone who overcame seemingly insurmountable odds.
August 15, 2021
I could not put this book down. Jeanne’s story of triumph is incredible. It’s been awhile since I’ve read this book and I can still visualize a number of events that took place. While reading, I felt as though I could see and hear all that was going on. I cannot say enough good things about this book. Everyone should learn more about what took place in Rwanda. Jeanne shares her story from the heart and I completely recommend it!!
July 12, 2022
This book is a tragic story of a girl who survived the Rwandan Genocide. She was alone in the streets of Rwanda during this genocide with her 3-year-old twin sisters. She starved and witnessed horrendous acts toward the Tutsis during those three months. She was also a victim of rape. Even though her story is sad, that did not stop her from succeeding in life. She overcame all the trauma and now uses it in a positive way.
August 13, 2024
Jeanne shares her story as a 10 year old Tutsi girl hiding with her 3 year old sisters from the Hutus. In 1994 the Hutus attempted to eradicate the Tutsis and killed men women and children in a mass genocide. Jeanne hid in fields and in the woods. The horrors she experienced were so wrong for a young girl - or for anyone. Sad story but important to know and I’m glad she shared it.
September 21, 2021
A must-read that will take you along for a harrowing and triumphant journey. This book has touched and changed me to the core: I came away with stronger faith, character, and a reverence for Jeanne Lakin.
May 10, 2023
I highly recommend this book. It’s a must read. I read it in a day. I had the joy of hearing this author speak at a DAR state conference. She radiated joy. I pray her story of survival and forgiveness is read by many.
July 13, 2022
This book is really interesting, I learned a lot about Rwandan genocide . I really recommend you
June 16, 2023
So amazing what she went through. So good and sad and wow what a woman
August 1, 2024
this one is wild i need to read it again
January 26, 2025
Written by a personal friend with an extraordinary testimony of God’s faithfulness that leaves you with much gratitude. Read this back in 2018, but was reminded today and encouraged to share it!
October 29, 2025
This is one of the best books. If you need a hardcopy or to be assisted with its assignment, find me at bonifacemwangi2022@gmail.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews