Father of the Lost Boys: Young Readers Edition

Mecak and his family were Christians in South Sudan. In a biographical account of Mecak Ajang Alaak, written by his son, Yout, learn about the events before, during and after the Second Sudanese Civil War. Because Mecak preferred the pen to the gun, he became responsible for saving thousands of boys from becoming child soldiers. In his early childhood, Mecak received a thorough education. He then became a very influential teacher to many people who would join the South Sudanese Army. Mecak also cared deeply for children and wanted them to become the next generation of leaders rather than child soldiers. When the civil war erupted, he helped many young children flee from battles where they could be killed, enslaved, or raped. They endured long journeys to escape, which involved long marches between refugee camps and the threat of wild animals. A powerful story about holding onto faith and hope when faced with terrifying circumstances.