“It is my hope that with the publication of Girl Soldier, people will take notice, pray and work to end this tragedy.”  -- Faith McDonnell, Co-Author of “Girl Soldier” and IRD’s director of Religious Liberties Programs

Contact: Loralei Coyle 202-682-4131, 202-905-6852 cell, lcoyle@ird-renew.org; Radio: Jeff Walton, jwalton@ird-renew.org; both with The Institute on Religion and Democracy

WASHINGTON, June 4 /Christian Newswire/ -- For several decades a brutal army of rebels has been raiding villages in northern Uganda, kidnapping children and turning them into soldiers or wives of commanders. More than 30,000 children have been abducted over the last twenty years and forced to commit unspeakable crimes.

Grace Akallo was one of these. Her story, which is the story of many Ugandan children, recounts her terrifying experience. In a new book co-authored with Akallo, Institute on Religion & Democracy Religious Liberties Director Faith McDonnell provides historical background and insights on how people can personally make a difference.

Girl Soldier, published by Chosen books, will be released on June 6.

What others are saying about Girl Soldier:

“A precious gift from two women, both uniquely qualified to speak for the suffering children of Uganda, one an eloquent survivor and the other a fearless advocate. It is no coincidence that their names are Grace and Faith.” -- Michael Card, Bible teacher and musician

“Girl Soldier is not fiction, yet that fact becomes harder to believe with every page we turn. This book is more than just a call to action. It is a challenge to our moral compass.” -- Adrian Bradbury, founder and director, GuluWalk

 “A much-needed reminder of the suffering and faith of the people of northern Uganda. Both have gone largely unnoticed for too long.” -- The Rt. Rev. Robert W. Duncan, bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh; moderator, Anglican Communion Network

“A poignant reminder that the darkness of the soul and the cruel behaviors it leads to are more devastating than we could imagine. This is an incredible account that demands a hearing and invites a response.” -- Steven W. Haas, vice president, World Vision International

Special note: Girl Soldier is available for purchase on the IRD website as well as book stores around the country.

The Institute on Religion and Democracy, founded in 1981, is an ecumenical alliance of U.S. Christians working to reform their churches’ social witness, in accord with biblical and historic Christian teachings, thereby contributing to the renewal of democratic society at home and abroad.