Nguyen writes about her ambition to become an astronaut and the attack (rape) while a student at Harvard that interrupted her plans. While she doesn’t describe the assault in graphic detail, she does describe the aftermath as well as her experience advocating for her and other victims’ rights. This book is very well written, but might be triggering for survivors of sexual assault or their loved ones. 

“I am in awe of Amanda Nguyen’s courage in sharing her story and her fight to support survivors. As a survivor, I know how painful it is to revisit and recount the horror of rape and sexual abuse, along with the shame, stigma, and doubt that comes with it. Today, Amanda is more than just that story―she’s an astronaut, an author, an activist, and a champion for all.” ―Nadia Murad, recipient of the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize

“If Saving Five doesn’t inspire you, check your pulse. It is an extraordinary testimony of resilience, persistence, and ambition. While Amanda’s history-making journey alone could have carried this memoir, it’s also a feat of formal invention, lyrical prose, and a gifted storyteller’s sense of suspense. I was mesmerized from page one to its triumphant ending.” ―Mitchell S. Jackson, author of Survival Math, winner of the Pulitzer Prize

“Saving Five is an extraordinarily moving account of Amanda Nguyen’s pursuit of justice and healing for herself and for millions of survivors around the world. Amanda’s story―innovatively told by versions of herself at different ages―underscores the lasting power of speaking your truth, building a movement, and never losing sight of your dreams.” ―Melinda French Gates, philanthropist and founder, Pivotal

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