Atka Reid - Goodbye Sarajevo. A True Story of Courage, Love and Survival

Goodbye Sarajevo: A True Story of Courage, Love and Survival

Atka Reid's Goodbye Sarajevo is a heart-wrenching testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship. The story unfolds in 1992, as the city of Sarajevo is besieged by war. Hana, a twelve-year-old girl, is forced to flee her home, leaving behind her older sister Atka and the life she knows. The promise of a short separation quickly turns into a desperate hope for survival. As the Bosnian war intensifies and the months turn into years, Hana struggles to adapt to the unfamiliar world of a refugee in Croatia, while Atka and their younger siblings face the brutal reality of a war-torn Sarajevo.

In a city crippled by destruction and crime, Atka's courage shines through. She finds work as a translator, stepping into a dangerous and unpredictable world. Through her experiences, she witnesses the darkest depths of human nature, but also discovers the extraordinary strength and compassion that can flourish even in the most desperate of circumstances. This journey of survival, filled with both sorrow and hope, ultimately leads to a surprising twist of fate that forever changes the lives of Atka and her family.

Goodbye Sarajevo is more than just a personal account of a family's struggle. It is a powerful exploration of the enduring bonds of love and family, the complexities of war, and the indomitable human spirit. Atka Reid's writing is raw and honest, capturing the raw emotions of war and displacement with unflinching honesty.

Atka Reid is a writer and journalist who has worked extensively in the Balkans. Her work is characterized by its depth, honesty, and unwavering commitment to telling stories that matter.