Amidst the rubble of civil-war-torn Syria, Aeham Ahmad offered desperately needed hope, a glimmer of normalcy and joy, and an empowering voice of protest through the music he played in the streets of Yarmouk. The Pianist from Syria has much to offer: a charming account of Ahmad's childhood under the wise and warm guidance of his blind, Palestinian-refugee father; a staggeringly insightful and personal glimpse of the current devastating crisis in Syria; and the inspiring story of one peaceful soul's struggle to rescue his family from chaos. [Editor's note: Aeham Ahmad's gorgeous album Keys to Friendship is available online and makes the perfect background for reading this poignant and edifying memoir.]