Reader responses to Slum

Shown below are comments and feedback from various readers of Slum: The People of Kibera.

You caught the character of Genesis very well. He really is such a phenomenal guy. What I enjoy about the book is what you say about it, that it isn't trying to solve the "problems," point out the problems, make excuses, or condemn them. It tells real life stories, unashamedly, with compassion, but not with drama. It doesn't seek to exploit their stories, or to send the reader on a guilt trip. Your heart aches for them, but not out of some external factors.

Melissa, New Jersey

Finished Slum today. You all should be really proud to be affiliated with that end result. It is not easy to read in so many places...but the resiliency of the people in these stories is incredible. I don't see how this couldn't/shouldn't have a larger audience. I loved the storytelling technique when Genesis would say something like..."And then what happened? Let's find out." Or his own personal italicized thoughts that were interspersed (which mirrored what anyone who was reading it would say). And your conclusion tied it all in perfectly...people struggle but people remain hopeful.

Scott, Washington D.C.

Just wanted you to know that after reading Slum, I have had many sleepless and restless nights. I am just heartbroken at the conditions of Kibera described in the book, and I am praying for the best way that I can help. In the middle of my sleepless night after reading Slum, I came to realize that the problems of Kibera are so immense that they can only be solved by God; I really think that they are too big and complex for man to even begin to tackle alone. Really, like anything else, for that matter! Anyway, just keep praying and I will, too.

Barbara, North Carolina

Genesis is very gifted. Every task he takes on, he takes seriously for the benefit of others and to glorify God. I love that about him, and I know God will continue to bless him and his family for their faithfulness and generosity. I first went to Kenya in 2005 and have been able to go back every year since then.

Amanda, Ontario, Canada

We are grateful for the book.. It is very helpful to get a clearer picture of the lives of the folks who live in Kibera. It's one thing to understand that their lives are difficult, but a whole different matter to actually be allowed to see inside their houses and jobs and lives. I hope your book will help to draw more people to the needs (both spiritual and physical) of Kibera. The people we've met there have so little in the way of what the world says is important and their daily struggles are very real, but God's grace is bringing amazing joy and peace.

Susan, North Carolina

Thank you so much for helping Faith and Gene - the project is really great. I was in Kibera from August 06 until May 07. It was a great time and really impacted my life. The book arrived only one week after you sent them! It's great! We are really impressed! Thank you so much.

Rebecca, Germany

What a worthwhile project! I have visited the website and have read about life in Kibera. You and your friend have done an incredible job of conveying the true feelings of the people of this impoverished country.

Terry, North Carolina

Reader responses to Slum

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