Daravann Yi

Salt Seeker: when There is Life, There is a Will to Survive Daravann Yi

Introduction: After the Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, ousted the democratic Lon Nol's government and took complete control of Cambodia on April 17th, 1975, the jubilation lasted for less than 12 hours. That afternoon, 3:00 P. M., Khmer Rouge started to empty the city of Phnom Penh and the city went into chaos. The Khmer Rouge announced, "Everyone must leave the city immediately for three days so that we can clean up the city. Then you would be allowed to return to your home. You must pack just enough stuff to use for three days. Leave the city immediately. Then you would be allowed to return to your home." Once all the people who had no political ties with the communist Khmer Rouge arrived at the country sides; the farm, they turned everyone into farmers and peasants. Then the killing began. Salt Seeker is an extraordinary story about a courageous young Cambodian boy who survived the genocide during the Khmer Rouge regime from April 17, 1975 to January 7, 1979. As you read the book, Daravann Yi will take you on his unimaginable journey through hell and back. Hope and strength of will kept him alive! Comments:"The gripping tale of triumph of a young boy forced to deal with the realities of war, displacement, rampant murder, and survival." Robert Woish, Certified Professional Resume Writer"An incredible and thought-provoking story of hardship and survival against overwhelming odds." Mark Hooper, Angel Editing"Millions of Cambodians perished during the "Killing Fields" of 1975-1979. How Daravann Yi, as a young boy, survived this genocide is a tragic yet ultimately winning story which demonstrates that courage can be shown by anyone of any age. An important book for public libraries." Karl Helicher, Director, Upper Merion Township Librar