Storyteller at heart

Tag Archives: Books

Finding Beauty in the Chaos: My Rollercoaster Start to 2024

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Holidays, New blog post, New Year, Purchase Books, Sanela Ramic Jurich

It’s time to make old mistakes in different ways. Hurray! Happy New Year!

Well, well, well, 2024, you playful little rascal, you’re not exactly off to a flying start for me.

Picture this: New Year’s Day, 2024. I wake up feeling a bit wonky. Sore throat, chills, fever – the whole shebang. Is it the flu? Covid? Just a run-of-the-mill cold? I’m playing medical detective with my own symptoms. Fast forward to the third day of this saga, and I’m blessed with waking up to my left eye looking like it tried to arm-wrestle a bee and lost. Swollen shut and crusty – the glamorous life, I tell you.

Off to the doctor I go, who, after a dramatic drumroll, declares it’s strep throat causing the pink eye extravaganza. Absolutely fabulous. A week of antibiotics later, the fever is gone, but I’m still clinging onto “under the weather” like it’s a security blanket.

But hey, let’s not let that cramp our style. Writing took a backseat, but fear not, my literary endeavors shall rise like a phoenix from the ashes!

And then today happened. I wake up to a winter wonderland – 7 inches of snow painting my world in frozen magic. Picture me, sipping coffee by the patio door, witnessing the snowfall turn my backyard into a Narnia-level masterpiece. It’s the kind of serene and wonderful that makes you forget strep throat ever existed.

 

© Sanela Ramic Jurich

 

So here’s to kicking 2024 where it hurts and embracing the unexpected beauty it throws our way. Bring it on, 2024 – I’m ready for the rollercoaster! 🎢✨

May this year be a kaleidoscope of health, prosperity, serenity, love, laughter, and kindness. 

~Sanela

Short excerpt from Between the Worlds: Sarah describes a nightmare caused by memories

 

Between the Worlds

The backhanded slap sent me sprawling. The shock of pain blinded me. When I tried to roll into a protective ball, he dragged me across the marble floor by the hair.

I denied and wept. He accused. Until he got tired, leaving me to crawl away and sob in a corner.
But this time, in this dream, I crawled off into my forest, where the air was warm and the ground welcoming.
And there, where the stream gurgled over its smooth rocks, I slept.
Then awoke to the cannon-blast of thunder and the jagged rip of lightning. Awoke to terror. Confusing the blasts of thunder with the blasts of the grenades destroying my grandfather’s town. His house. My parents, my grandpa…
When I fell asleep again, I was back in my forest. Running. Instead of fighting, I was running. Too afraid to turn around and face what pursued me. Finally, I reached the lake. The vast glorious Lake Michigan and decided to plunge into the water. And the trees of my forest all tumbled in after me.
Between the Worlds is available on Amazon. Click to buy!
 

 

  

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

Fueled by her passion for writing, Sanela was eager to take on a new writing endeavor. Utilizing a pseudonym presented her with the chance to engage with a fresh and diverse audience. She recently published her first contemporary/fantasy novel titled “Between the Worlds”. This captivating tale explores the themes of soulmates, profound connections, the allure of home, and the strength of emotions. 

With every stroke of her pen, Ella Rees, the alias she wears with pride, casts a spell woven from the raw fibers of emotions, entwining readers in a spellbinding dance of heart and mind.

 

AN INSPIRING TALE OF UNYIELDING STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE

Posted on by Posted in Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Purchase Books, Reviews

“I have died a thousand times over and over and now stand in my power as Moonstone Phoenix, to burn, then rise from the ashes, again and again, to be reborn as new.” ~Simonne Butler

Double-edged Sword is a survival story like no other. In 2003 Simonne Butler’s violent partner, Antoine Dixon, high on methamphetamine, cut off both her hands with a samurai sword. Her hands were reattached in a groundbreaking marathon surgery and she spent the next decade healing her mind, body and spirit.

Despite five years in an extremely physically and emotionally abusive relationship, Simonne always had an unbreakable spirit. Even when her self-confidence and sense of self-preservation was at rock bottom, she was able to source phenomenal strength that saw her survive horrendous blood loss and being left for dead for hours, holding her severed limbs in such a way that allowed revascularisation to be possible.

 

Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler StoryDouble-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story by Simonne Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story” is a poignant and riveting narrative that transcends the boundaries of survival and resilience. Simonne Butler’s journey from unspeakable tragedy to triumphant recovery is nothing short of extraordinary, and this book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

As I delved into the pages of this gripping memoir, I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster, compelled to take breaks to absorb the intensity of Simonne’s harrowing experiences. Her story, marked by unthinkable abuse and the brutal severance of her hands, is a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk within relationships.

Simonne’s unbreakable spirit is the heartbeat of this narrative. Her ability to find strength, even in the depths of despair, is truly awe-inspiring. The raw honesty with which she shares her journey resonated with me on a profound level. It was as if I could see a reflection of myself in her—her love for life, her childlike sense of humor, and the unwavering love she bestowed upon those around her.

What sets this book apart is not only the shocking events it recounts but also the author’s remarkable ability to infuse her story with hope and resilience. Despite enduring unimaginable physical and emotional trauma, Simonne’s determination to heal her mind, body, and spirit shines through every page.

Moreover, “Double-edged Sword” sheds light on the broader issue of domestic abuse and the betrayal suffered not only at the hands of a violent partner but also from those entrusted with love and protection during Simonne’s vulnerable years. The author’s courage in sharing these painful truths is commendable, as it adds depth to the narrative and underscores the importance of empathy and understanding.

In the end, Simonne Butler emerges not just as a survivor but as a beacon of strength, resilience, and the transformative power of love. This book is an emotional rollercoaster, a wake-up call, and a celebration of the human spirit. I wholeheartedly give “Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story” a five-star rating for its profound impact and the courage it took to share such an intimate and empowering story.

 

Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story is available on Amazon

 

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THIS WEEK’S QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Posted on by Posted in Audio Books, Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Haunting from the Past, New blog post, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich

Questions by Chapter Break ~book blog

 

Let's enjoy some books together!
“Writing is the most fun you can have by yourself.” – Terry Pratchett

 

Q: What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?

A: Hmm, great question. You know, I’ve always found myself creating these idealized versions of people I like. It could be a crush, a friend, or someone whose personality I admire. I tend to daydream about them, putting them on a pedestal until they become this perfect, almost God-like figure.

Take my first book-boyfriend, Johnny. In my mind, he was absolutely perfect—looks, personality, the whole package. I wanted my readers to fall in love with him just as much as I did, to feel the pain of loss when he met his demise in the story. The real Johnny, the inspiration behind the character, didn’t survive the convoy I wrote about in “Remember Me.” So, he remains forever “that” Johnny, the one I idealized and perfected in my mind. He’ll never reveal his true, human self because he never got the chance to live into his true adulthood.

In my latest book, “Between the Worlds,” I found myself idolizing a friend who, in the end, betrayed me. It was a tough reality check, discovering how mundane he truly was. It shattered the perfect image I’d created in my mind. I wished he could have stayed the way he was in my imagination. So, halfway through writing this fantastic book, he showed me his true colors, and it was challenging to finish it the way I initially planned, with him being as amazing as I made him out to be. But, you know, that’s the beauty of fiction—it’s a fantasy. In real life, I don’t think men that perfect exist because, well, they’re only human.

Q: What do you do when a new idea jumps out at you while you’re still working on a book? Do you chase the squirrel (aka “UP syndrome”) or do you finish your current project first?

A: Oh, that’s a scenario I’m quite familiar with. My creative process is a bit unconventional, to be honest. When a new idea hits me, it’s like an image pops into my head, and it nags at me until I acknowledge it. If I start daydreaming about it, the idea tends to evolve into a full-fledged story. If I really like it and believe I can translate it from my mind to paper, I’ll sit down at the computer and start writing, describing that initial image.

Sometimes, though, it doesn’t sound as good on paper as it did in my head. In those cases, I let go of the idea. But if I find myself smiling and naturally expanding on it, if my mind keeps weaving through the narrative, then I know it’s worth pursuing. Most of the time, if a story feels book-worthy, I can seamlessly transition to it after completing my current project.

So, to answer your question, I do prioritize finishing my current project first before diving into the next one. However, I like to sprinkle little teasers throughout the writing process of my first project to keep the new idea fresh in my mind. Does that make sense? It’s a bit of a quirky process, I admit.

Q: What are some books or authors that you would recommend to our readers?

A: Oh, I could talk about books all day! One author I absolutely adore is Anne Rice. Her vampire series, especially with Lestat, is my all-time favorite. Her writing has this magical way of transporting you to different places and times. The vivid pictures she paints in a reader’s mind just make me get completely lost in her stories. I remember Merick was the first book of hers I read, and from then on, I was hooked.

Dean Koontz is another author I’ve enjoyed, especially his book “Odd Thomas”. It’s one of those books I go back to every once in a while.

Now, I have a guilty pleasure for the Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer. And anything about witches? Count me in! “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness is a particular favorite, although the next book in the series didn’t quite meet my expectations. Maybe the anticipation got the best of me.

Oh, and if you’ve got time, I could go on and on with recommendations. Once I start talking about books, it’s hard to stop. I could keep you entertained for hours!

 

C.B: Well, it sounds like you have a passion for books that’s truly infectious! I appreciate your recommendations and insights. We could chat about literature for hours, but I’ll let you get back to your own writing endeavors. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and recommendations today!

 

  

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

 

 
 

FALL FEELS AND TURKEY MEALS: A GRATEFUL TWIST

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Holidays, Purchase Books, Sanela Ramic Jurich

“The turkey. The sweet potatoes. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else we all can agree so vehemently about? I don’t think so.” – Nora Ephron

I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you purchasing, reading, and reviewing my books. Thankful for You.

The weather did a swift 180 from perfect to downright chilly, making it a challenge to convince myself

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that it’s still prime leaf-peeping time in the good ol’ USA. Yet, despite the sudden cold snap, there’s a silver lining – and it’s not just the frost on the pumpkins. Drumroll, please… enter Thanksgiving, the pièce de résistance of this glorious autumnal saga!

Sure, I’m thankful for the pumpkin pies and apple delights, but let’s not forget the real MVPs – the friends and family who gather around the table to tackle those desserts with me. And topping the gratitude list? The sheer privilege of calling this country home.

As I mentally brace myself for the impending winter blues, I’m determined to squeeze every ounce of joy out of fall.

Winter may be knocking, but for now, let’s soak up the fall vibes like there’s no tomorrow – or at least until the turkey coma kicks in. 🍂🦃

So, as I bid a not-so-fond farewell to the thought of winter’s icy grip, I’m raising a pumpkin-spiced latte to autumn and all its glory. Let’s cherish these moments, from the laughter around the dinner table to the crunch of leaves beneath our boots.

Here’s to embracing the warmth of gratitude, the joy of fall, and the anticipation of a holiday season that promises not just cozy nights by the fireplace but an abundance of love and laughter.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, joy, and a whole lot of pumpkin-flavored everything! 🍂🍁🦃

~Sanela

THIS WEEK’S QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Posted on by Posted in Author Interviews, Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, Ella Rees, Haunting from the Past, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich

 

“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”

– Ernest Hemingway

 

 

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background.

Q: “How do you solve a writer’s block?”
A: I wish I had some magical and quick answer to give you, but I don’t. I only experienced writer’s block once, but it lasted for a few years. I was going through some really tough times in my married life, and I simply lost my ability to create. I was depressed and mentally absent. I couldn’t concentrate on anything except what was happening in reality. It was tough because my ability to escape into my writing had always been my savior. 

Then, unexpectedly, during a playful banter with a friend, a whimsical idea struck me. I joked, “I bet we knew each other forever. For eons. I bet we were best friends in all of our previous lives. Before we were born into this one, we decided to be born together. But because we are such opposites and always bicker, halfway to our birth, we argued. And because you’re so stubborn, you let go of my hand, and I got sucked in first. You panicked and waited a few minutes, not knowing that five minutes there meant 19 years here. That’s why there’s such a huge age difference between us, and that’s why I was born across the seas and you were born here…”

That playful moment unblocked my writer’s block. It hit me hard, and I sat down to write a short, four-page story. But I couldn’t stop there; the story kept haunting me until it grew into a whole book. That’s how my latest book, Between the Worlds, was born. This particular story is dear to my heart because it helped me find my way back to creating new and amazing worlds for myself.

So, in summary, when your writer’s block cure involves interdimensional disputes and playful paradoxes with pals… well, that’s the secret recipe to solving writer’s block!

Q: “Did you ever join a writer’s group?”
A: Never been one for writer’s groups. If I did, I’d probably be that enigmatic figure in the corner, talking to the characters in my head.

Q: “Where and when do you write?”
A: I’m a mood writer—whenever inspiration taps me on the shoulder, I’m at its mercy. My go-to spot? You’ll find me orchestrating literary masterpieces from the comfort of my couch, laptop propped up on a pillow.

Let’s take a look at the world of my new novel BETWEEN THE WORLDS.

 

 

You can read the first chapter here: Between the Worlds excerpt.

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

 

 

 

🌟 Exciting Book Launch Special: “Between the Worlds” by Ella Rees – Only 99 Cents! 🌟

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Purchase Books

Attention all avid readers and fantasy enthusiasts!

 

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I am thrilled to announce the much-anticipated launch of “Between the Worlds,” a spellbinding novel crafted by me under the name of my alter ego, Ella Rees. Prepare to be swept away on a captivating journey through realms unknown, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur into a breathtaking tapestry of emotions.

📚 Book Synopsis 📚 “Between the Worlds” is a contemporary/fantasy masterpiece that transports you to a realm where magic intertwines with the mundane, and where soulmates are destined to collide.

Have you ever met someone for the first time and felt like you’ve known them forever? Against all odds, you know deep inside that you know them. They feel familiar and comforting. You are drawn to them, but you only just met them. How can that be? Could it be some kind of a karmic connection? Soulmates? Could it all be just a figment of your imagination, or could there be an actual rational explanation for feeling this way? Is there a scientific explanation or is it fate?

Sarah Wilson was a woman of extraordinary powers descended from a legendary figure known as Air. Joined by her two sisters in power, Sarah’s existence took an unexpected turn when her ex-husband’s violence led to her untimely demise. It was in that moment of passing that Sarah journeyed to a place she recognized as home, where memories of her true self and her soulmate, Jachin—now known as Jack Adams—resurfaced.

But the sisters in power intervened, bringing Sarah’s spirit back to life, empowering her to confront her assailant. With her rebirth as Sarah Wilson, a flood of memories from her past lives and her connection to home surged within her being.

🎉 Limited-Time Offer: Only 99 Cents! 🎉 To celebrate this momentous launch, we’re offering “Between the Worlds” at an irresistible price of just 99 cents! Yes, you read that right – for less than the cost of your morning coffee, you can embark on a journey that will transport you between realms and emotions, all within the pages of a single book. This special offer won’t last forever, so make sure to secure your digital copy today and immerse yourself in the magic that Ella Rees has conjured.

📖 How to Get Your Copy 📖 Getting your hands on this extraordinary tale is as easy as a click of a button. Head over to Amazon.com and search for “Between the Worlds” by Ella Rees. At the limited-time price of just 99 cents, it’s a deal that’s too good to pass up.

Thank you for joining me in celebrating the launch of Ella Rees’ captivating debut novel. Let the journey begin! 🌟

 

You can read the first chapter here: Between the Worlds excerpt.

 

Enjoy,

Sanela

 

Lost in a Good Book: A Tale of Airport Absorption

Posted on by Posted in Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Haunting from the Past, Holidays, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich

 

$2.38 Digital eBook Download

 

Once, a friend of mine was reading a particularly engrossing novel on a long flight. She was so absorbed in the story that she didn’t even notice the plane had landed and everyone was getting off. She only realized what had happened when a flight attendant tapped her on the shoulder and asked her to please exit the plane.

Feeling embarrassed, she quickly gathered her things and rushed off the plane, still clutching her book. As she walked through the airport, she was so engrossed in the story that she accidentally walked into a large potted plant! She stumbled and nearly fell, but managed to catch herself before she hit the ground.

Feeling a little frazzled, she looked around to see if anyone had noticed her mishap.

My friend couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of it all, and it certainly made for a memorable end to her journey.

 

REMEMBER ME is out in audio! (Plus a Giveaway!)

 

“Unforgettable!” –Readers’ Favorite; Reviewed by Alice DiNizo for Readers’ Favorite

“Amazing Book – A Must Read” -Vine Voice; Reviewed by Elaine Littau for Vine Voice

“Credible, Compassionate, and Courageous” -PDX Author; Reviewed by Gregory S. Lamb for PDX Author

 

In celebration, I’m giving away a FREE audiobook to anyone promising to leave a review after they listen. Simply email sanela@sanelajurich.com and let me know you’re interested. I will send you a code to one free copy of Remember Me to listen and review.  

 

Sample: Narrated by Lindsay Carrillo

To purchase, go to Audible.com or visit Amazon.com

 

Story Time – Majda and Siniša

Posted on by Posted in Book recommendation, Books, Bosnia, eBooks, Genocide, Haunting from the Past, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich, Short stories

 

Today’s story takes us to Vukovar, Croatia. 

Those of you who are not familiar with the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s might not have heard about Vukovar, Croatia. This town, located on the border between Croatia and Serbia, has been a scene of one of the biggest and most cruel war crimes in the current European history.

Around eight thousand people (mostly civilians) died during the fights, afterward during the Ethnic cleansing the majority of the Croatian inhabitants were either murdered or driven out of town. 99% of the city was destroyed, making Vukovar the first place in Europe so heavily damaged since World War Two. You can see how the city looked like during the battle here.

 

“Vukovar is certainly the most sincere city in the world, because–almost at the same time– every word can be reflected in the heart.” –Siniša Glavašević

 

Once upon a time, there was a young couple named Majda and  Siniša who fell deeply in love and were married shortly after they met. Siniša was a journalist, and Majda was a nurse who cared for the wounded. They lived in a beautiful small town called Vukovar. 

In the spring of 1991, the siege of Vukovar took place and suddenly, the whole world knew the name of this little town.  First incidents started off small: homes and shops were attacked … The Serbian Army surrounded Vukovar and the real siege started in August.

The city was defended by less than two thousand soldiers, while the Yugoslav Army (de facto the Serb one) had between 27 and 80 thousand soldiers attacking. The siege took 87 days until Vukovar was captured by the Yugoslav Army and proclaimed the Serb city.

Despite the chaos and danger of war, Sinisa and Majda found comfort in each other’s company. They would steal moments together whenever they could, stealing kisses in the dark corners of the hospital or holding hands during brief breaks in the fighting.

One day, Sinisa was badly injured by a shrapnel of a grenade destroying a nearby school  and was rushed to the hospital where Majda worked. Majda was devastated to see the man she loved lying on a hospital bed, his body riddled with wounds.

She spent long hours by his side, tending to his injuries and offering words of encouragement. Sinisa, meanwhile, was overwhelmed by his feelings for Majda, knowing that she was the only person who made him feel safe in the midst of the war.

As Sinisa slowly recovered, he and Majda grew closer than ever before. They shared stories of their childhoods and dreams for the future, imagining a world where war was a thing of the past so they could raise their daughter in peace. 

However, their happiness was short-lived. 

The most barbarian part of the siege was when the hospital, clearly marked with the red cross, was attacked and captured. During the siege, the building was strafed over 800 times until it was eventually captured in November 1991.

Many of those who were wounded were killed directly in their hospital beds, others (255 non-Serbian workers and patients) were taken to the nearby village, Ovcara, where they were tortured and eventually killed and buried in the mass grave. Only one man managed to escape, his testimony helped to recognize this war crime.

During the Battle of Vukovar, Siniša Glavašević was regularly reporting from the besieged city. He is particularly remembered for a series of stories he had read to the listeners, that talked about basic human values.

On 18 November 1991, Glavašević sent in his last report, which ended with:

The picture of Vukovar at the 22nd hour of the 87th day [of the siege] will remain forever in the memory of the witnesses of this time. There are infinite spooky sights, and you can smell the burning. We walk over bodies, building material, glass, detritus and the gruesome silence. … We hope that the torments of Vukovar are over.

Glavašević disappeared shortly after this last report. He had been beaten and executed by Serbian paramilitary forces, along with hundreds of others between 18–20 November. In 1997, his body was exhumed from a mass grave in a nearby farm in Ovčara. He was 31 years old. 

 

When I was fifteen years old, my whole life changed in a blink of an eye…

I truly believe that I survived for one reason and one reason only: to tell our story, to give a voice to those who don’t have it anymore. I was there as a witness. As a survivor, I have an obligation. I have to talk about what happened in Bosnia (former Yugoslavia), back in 1992, no matter the cost.