It Happened On the Way to War

Brief Summary

It Happened On the Way to War by Rye Barcott is a compelling memoir that chronicles the author's journey from being a student on an ROTC scholarship to making a significant impact in one of Africa's largest slums, Kibera in Nairobi, Kenya. As an undergraduate, Barcott visits Kibera to gain insights into ethnic violence. There, he establishes a deep connection with a widowed nurse and a community organizer, leading to the formation of the Carolina for Kibera (CFK) organization. The NGO aims to tackle cycles of violence and empower young leaders. While managing his responsibilities with CFK, Barcott also served in the Marines, striving to balance the dual roles and their contrasting challenges. The memoir offers an insightful exploration of military service mingling with humanitarian efforts, presenting broader reflections on America's global responsibilities.

Main Themes and Topics

The main themes in It Happened On the Way to War include the intersection of military and humanitarian service, the quest for understanding ethnic conflict, and the power of grassroots movements in creating change. Rye Barcott deftly illustrates the challenges and rewards of building a non-governmental organization in a volatile environment while managing the rigors of military life. The narrative delves into the theme of duality, as Barcott copes with the complexities of waging peace and engaging in war. The book also highlights themes of friendship, collaboration, and the transformative potential of community-led initiatives in changing societal dynamics.

Writing Style and Tone

Rye Barcott's writing style in It Happened On the Way to War is both engaging and vivid. His narrative reads almost like a novel, effectively combining personal anecdotes with broader socio-political insights. Barcott's tone is reflective and honest, providing a balanced view of his internal struggles and triumphs. The memoir's pacing maintains reader interest, while the evocative descriptions bring to life the contrasting worlds of Kibera and his military engagements. The writing is both informative and emotive, allowing readers to connect with Barcott's experiences on a personal level.

Awards and Recognition

It Happened On the Way to War has received praise from notable figures, including Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone, and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. Both commend the work for its riveting storytelling and the profound truths it uncovers about humanity. While detailed award information is not mentioned, the endorsements alone highlight the memoir's impact and the respect it commands in literary and humanitarian circles.

Criticism

While the memoir has been widely applauded for its narrative and insights, some readers might feel that it occasionally glosses over the complexities and nuances of the socio-political environments it describes. Additionally, the interweaving of personal military experiences with the broader humanitarian narrative might not resonate as strongly with readers seeking a purely peace-focused discourse. However, such critiques are relatively minor in comparison to the overall positive reception of the book.