News: Educate Girls, Change The World

I am thankful 2011 provided me with numerous opportunities to work on new projects that rewarded my desire to affect change in our world and to write the stories that most touched my heart. Thus, I was thrilled to join forces with Richard E. Robbins, an award-winning documentary director, writer, and producer, and The Documentary Group as a writer on for their feature film, 10X10: Educate Girls, Change the World.

“…10×10 is a feature film that tells the stories of 10 extraordinary girls, from 10 developing countries around the world. These stories, written by an acclaimed female writer from the girl’s country and narrated by a celebrated actress, describe a unique personal journey of triumph and achievement against incredible odds…” Click to learn more about 10x10act.org. Click to learn more about 10×10’s Book Club featuring Loung’s book, FIRST THEY KILLED MY FATHER.

EXCERPT OF INTERVIEW WITH LOUNG UNG BY TERRY HONG, MARCH 2011

10X10: Educate Girls, Change The World Book Club Kit

For someone who has experienced hell, Loung Ung is a bright, welcoming voice filled with inviting laughter.

She’s warm: “I just had dinner with my writing group last night. They’re my PenGals. I just love them! I don’t know what I would do without them.”

She’s practical: “I hate to drive! I have a 1997 beat-up old Toyota so if I get another ding on it, I don’t have to worry!”

She’s mischievous: “Yeah, just about when everyone is pulling out their boots and scarves, I like to share pictures of me on the beach with my friends at home who are freezing.”

She’s curious: “I tried to Google you, but I couldn’t figure out which Terry Hong you are!”

She’s goofy: “When I don’t feel like cooking, and my husband doesn’t feel like cooking, I just tell him, ‘Hey, I moved to Ohio for love! Make me something warm and good! Pour me a glass of wine and I’ll sit at the counter and entertain you while you cook for me!’”

Yes, she loves to eat, and she’s not even picky: “I can eat anything, and sleep anywhere!” she declares. “I grew up eating out of the garbage cans, so nothing ever upsets my stomach!”

And there she offers a glimpse of her past. Above all else, Loung Ung is a survivor – a survivor who has managed to keep her humanity (and humor) intact in spite of enduring unspeakable atrocity. Click here for more: AUTHOR INTERVIEW ON BOOK DRAGON.