House Without Windows

A graphic documentary called "Storm Over Bangui" by Didier Kassaï depicts the lives of street children in Bangui, Central African Republic, combining photos, illustrations, and videos to showcase their courage in the face of poverty.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Humanoids, Inc

In the heart of the Central African Republic, a land plagued by insecurity, poverty, and malnutrition, children face a daily struggle for survival. The country has become a metaphor for a "house without windows," a place where the harsh realities of life are hidden from view. However, through the delicate hand of artist Didier Kassaï and the skilled lens of British photojournalist Marc Ellison, a graphic documentary emerges that sheds light on the plight of these forgotten children.

"Storm Over Bangui" is a powerful testament to the resilience and courage of these young souls. Through a combination of illustrations, photos, and videos (activated via QR codes), the comic takes readers on a journey into the heart of this forgotten crisis. Kassai's illustrations bring the children's stories to life, painting vivid portraits of their struggles and hardships. Ellison's photographs, meanwhile, capture the raw emotion and resilience of the children, showcasing their unwavering spirit in the face of unimaginable poverty.

The comic takes readers on a journey through the lives of several children, each with their unique story and challenges. From the diamond mines where they are forced to work as slaves to the refugee camps where they are housed, these children endure a life of hardship and deprivation. Yet, despite the odds stacked against them, they display an inspirational courage that is truly awe-inspiring.

One child, named Ndeye, is a young girl who was forced to leave her home and family to escape the violence that engulfed her village. She ended up in a refugee camp, where she faced daily threats of violence and hunger. Yet, Ndeye refused to give up hope. She found solace in drawing and painting, using her art as a means of expressing her emotions and coping with the trauma she had experienced. Her artwork caught the attention of a local artist, who provided her with an opportunity to showcase her talent. Ndeye's paintings were exhibited in galleries and museums, and her story became a source of inspiration for others in the camp.

Another child, named Moussa, is a young boy who was born into a family of farmers. However, when the civil war broke out, his family's farm was destroyed, and they were forced to flee to a refugee camp. Moussa found solace in music, and he began to play the guitar and sing in the camp. His talent and passion for music became a source of joy and hope for his fellow refugees, and he was eventually invited to perform at a music festival in the capital city of Bangui.

Through the stories of these children and many others, "Storm Over Bangui" highlights the devastating impact of the civil war on the lives of Central African children. The comic also showcases the resilience and courage of these young souls, who refuse to be defined by their circumstances and continue to strive for a better future.

"Storm Over Bangui" is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and action in the face of adversity. It serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize the well-being and rights of children, especially those affected by conflict and poverty.

In conclusion, "Storm Over Bangui" is a graphic documentary that offers a glimpse into the lives of the street children of Bangui. Through the powerful combination of art and storytelling, the comic sheds light on the harsh realities of their lives and showcases their inspirational courage in the face of unimaginable poverty. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 159 x 211 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643375427