Back to Blog

Ishmael Beah, former child soldier, talks about life in Sierra Leone

Posted on September 20, 2012

Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier, inspired students and faculty at today’s All School Assembly.

Beah’s riveting talk included stories from his life in Sierra Leone — before, during, and after his time as a child soldier — as well as his journey to the United States and new life in New York City. The 26-year-old also answered many questions from students and faculty.

We here at Beaver feel very lucky to have heard Beah’s emotional and exceptional story and would like to thank him for his time and openness!

After his talk, Beah stayed and answered additional questions from Beaver sixth graders. These students had read the first chapter of Beah’s memoir to learn what life is like for a child who lives in a conflicted society.

Ishmael Beah talks to Beaver students

Learn more about Ishamel Beah, his memoir, and his current work on his website, www.alongwaygone.com.

Your turn: What did you think of Ishmael Beah’s talk? Do you have any additional questions you’d like to ask him? Leave a comment below!

Check out the full 2012-13 Speaker Series.

Posted in Campus
Tagged , , ,

Beaver Country Day School admits qualified students of any race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, creed, handicap status, national origin or ethnicity to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, creed, handicap status, national origin or ethinicity in the administration of its educational, admission, financial aid, athletic or other school-administered programs or policies.