Soul of a Tiger

Book excerpt: Cha-Cha is as stubborn as a child can be; which are both a blessing and a curse for the young girl who lives in a rural community in Cambodia. Her spirited nature is no match for her old-fashioned father's ways of thinking, as he believes that women should marry and become caretakers to their husbands. Determination prevails, as Cha-Cha's mother goes out of her way to ensure her daughter's opportunity for an education. However, just as Cha-Cha begins to enjoy the fruits of her pursuit of an education, the entire country of Cambodia hits a political crisis. The bloody war with the Khmer Rouge is lost, resulting in their takeover of the entire country. Their quest is a savage one, they kill the most affluent citizens, including anyone who works for the government, school system, military or persons of education and influence. The elite become the third class citizens of society and subsequently; the first to be killed. Cha-Cha must now hide with her family for four long and gruesome years. Her elderly mother, two toddlers and husband encounter many miracles and survive incredible obstacles throughout every step of their journey. The book follows her struggles during the genocide in Cambodia. Her quick wits, and the miracles along the way, save her life many times. She escapes to Thailand, is wounded by a bomb, then gets the opportunity to come to the United States. Soul of a Tiger tells the true story of one woman's courage, hopes, and her faith.