Stolen Lives: Twenty Years in a Desert Jail

Malika Oufkir

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A gripping memoir that reads like a political thriller--the story of Malika Oufkir's turbulent and remarkable life. Born in 1953, Malika Oufkir was the eldest daughter of General Oufkir, the King of Morocco's closest aide.

Adopted by the king at the age of five, Malika spent most of her childhood and adolescence in the seclusion of the court harem, one of the most eligible heiresses in the kingdom, surrounded by luxury and extraordinary privilege.

Then, on August 16, 1972, her father was arrested and executed after an attempt to assassinate the king. Malika, her five younger brothers and sisters. and her mother were immediately imprisoned in a desert penal colony.

After fifteen years, the last ten of which they spent locked up in solitary cells, the Oufkir children managed to dig a tunnel with their bare hands and make an audacious escape. Recaptured after five days, Malika was finally able to leave Morocco and begin a new life in exile in 1996.

A heartrending account in the face of extreme deprivation and the courage with which one family faced its fate, Stolen Lives is an unforgettable story of one woman's journey to freedom.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Political Turmoil in Morocco: The book provides insights into the political landscape of Morocco during the reign of King Hassan II and the oppressive regime he maintained.

  2. Injustice and Oppression: Malika Oufkir vividly portrays the unjust imprisonment of her family, highlighting the brutality and corruption of the Moroccan government and the lack of basic human rights.

  3. Resilience and Survival: Despite enduring extreme hardship and deprivation, the Oufkir family demonstrates remarkable resilience and perseverance, finding ways to survive and maintain their dignity in the face of adversity.

  4. Bond Among Family Members: The book emphasizes the strong bond and solidarity among the Oufkir family members, who support and sustain each other throughout their years of captivity.

  5. Psychological Impact: Malika Oufkir delves into the psychological toll of imprisonment, describing the trauma, despair, and isolation experienced by herself and her family members.

  6. Escape Attempts: Throughout the memoir, the Oufkir family makes several daring attempts to escape from their prison, risking their lives in pursuit of freedom.

  7. International Attention: The Oufkir family's story attracts international attention, leading to diplomatic efforts and pressure on the Moroccan government to release them.

  8. Reintegration into Society: Upon their eventual release after two decades in captivity, the Oufkir family faces the daunting challenge of reintegrating into society and rebuilding their lives.

  9. Advocacy for Human Rights: Malika Oufkir becomes an advocate for human rights and speaks out against the injustices perpetrated by the Moroccan regime, using her platform to raise awareness and seek justice for victims of political oppression.

  10. Legacy of Resilience: "Stolen Lives" leaves a lasting impression of the indomitable human spirit and the power of hope, resilience, and determination in the face of unimaginable hardship and injustice.

Language English
ISBN-10 0786886307
ISBN-13 9780786886302
No of pages 304
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Miramax
Published Date 01 May 2002

About Author

Author : Malika Oufkir

NA

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