Review of A Dream For Peace

Post by **Sarah Schmidt** » 26 Apr 2022, 02:56

[Following is a volunteer review of "A Dream For Peace" by Dr. Ghoulem Berrah.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Growing up in Algeria, Dr. Ghoulem Berrah was a firsthand witness to the racism and division of a colonized country. Raised in a home by a devoted mother, he understood the value of having moral ideals and fighting for what one believes in. He goes to France to further his education. While there, he joins a resistance group comprised of his brethren to liberate Algeria from French rule. Eventually, his actions lead to his imprisonment, but freedom is soon at hand. The movement is successful, and over the course of his life, he advises and befriends other important characters, marrying twice before finding the love of his life on the third go, sticking by his Muslim faith and bettering the conditions in his home country while he does so. He tells all this and more in his memoir A Dream for Peace.

Memoirs and autobiographies are generally not so exciting, but I’m happy to state this is not the case with this one. A life led in dedication to a worthy cause is the best type to be immortalized on paper. Though his book doesn’t get too detail-heavy, Berrah allows his readers insight into the accomplishing of his missions, hardships, meetings with various influential individuals and parties, and so on. Pictures are provided of relevant people, places, documents, and the like that help validate and brighten up his story. To top it off, readers are provided with footnotes that help set unfamiliar terms in context.

Berrah's character is admirable. From a young age, he is able to take on a great deal of responsibility, standing up for himself and his beliefs in a school setting after facing prejudice and discrimination. He displays bravery, selflessness, and a strong moral compass, respecting religions other than his own and being able to hold conversations pertaining to them.

A Dream for Peace doesn’t just provide an account of Berrah’s life in his capacity as a freedom fighter, diplomat, doctor, and advisor. In the early parts of the story, we witness the touching and deep bond he shared with his mother. This carried over into many aspects of his life. Later on, his marriage with Titi, his last wife, whom he calls his ‘Love’, is touched on. Their story and deep love were great counterbalances to the political and social atmosphere of the book.

For some readers, it might be a daunting task to make it through such a lengthy read. Tons of pictures break up the body of the text, however, more so in the mid to later stages of the book. If this is still a deterrent, I would advise completing the book in multiple sittings, as I did.

I believe that this book has been professionally edited. This is because I saw few errors in the text. Berrah’s intellect and passion were wonderfully transmitted in the writing as well.

A Dream for Peace gets a rating of four out of four stars. There was nothing I disliked about or found negative in the book. Dr. Ghoulem Berrah gave a well-written account of his life, which is, in itself, fascinating and educative. Those wanting to learn more about one of the key players in Algeria’s independence from France will be better off after having read this book. People who enjoy memoirs about activists and ambassadors would find this book suitable.

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A Dream For Peace
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Timothee22 · Post by **Timothee22** » 13 May 2022, 16:40

This is a memoir that talks about the topic of racism and colonization. The author narrates some part of the fight for independence in his country.

Hakeem nuel · Post by **Hakeem nuel** » 14 May 2023, 09:10

This book takes us back to history and how France colonized African countries. It was really interesting and engaging.

Cesyao · Post by **Cesyao** » 05 Jun 2023, 00:29

A Dream for Peace is a timely and necessary read, reminding us of the urgency to foster peace in our own lives and beyond.

Elvischukwu · Post by **Elvischukwu** » 05 Jun 2023, 01:06

A Dream for Peace is a captivating exploration of the human capacity for resilience and the pursuit of harmony despite adversity.

Kelvin Modilim · Post by **Kelvin Modilim** » 17 Jun 2023, 19:03

This book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Algerian people and their enduring pursuit of freedom, inspiring readers with its portrayal of courage and determination.

Manapo Mohapi · Post by **Manapo Mohapi** » 24 Jul 2023, 06:32

I can relate to the review and I think it summaries the book well. Because of his educational background, Dr. Ghoulem Berrah relates his life's events in a simple manner that is enjoyable and informative. Also, his character as calm, diplomatic and inclusive is displayed in his work. Scholars and memoir lovers will enjoy this book.