This is a stunning account of living and surviving in the Khmer Rouge's Cambodia. Daran is a talented musician who witnesses the rise of the Khmer Rouge and the death of his family. He is initially captured and escapes to the jungle where he fights starvation. Eventually he joins a Khmer cooperative and faces the daily threat of violence and death. Through the acquisition of an accordion and the opportunity to play for various soldiers his life is spared on numerous occasions. Through his various work details he meets many people trying to retain their dignity and history in the face of violence and starvation. His compassion and music allow others to maintain a hold on their humanity and even saves his life when faced with unbearable despair. The book is an easy read and both a testament to one person's will to live and the beauty to found in the darkest hours. I also enjoyed many of the anecdotes interspersed throughout about Cambodian life and culture. Anyone interested in an eye witness account to living under the Khmer Rouge or in Cambodian culture would enjoy this read. ( )