FREEDOM ISN'T FREE: A BOAT PEOPLE STORY AS TOLD BY PHU SAM. Friesen, Evelyn. Winnipeg, Kindred Press, c1985. 184pp, paper, $8.95, ISBN 0-919797-474. Distributed by Kindred Press, 4-169 Riverton Ave., Winnipeg. Man., R2L 2E5. Grades 8 and up Reviewed by John D. Crawford Volume 14 Number 3 1986 May This is an account of the experiences of a small group of South Vietnamese boat people. It begins in the final days of the South Vietnamese government; passes on through a period of disillusionment for the group that leads them to flee their country; and finally describes their problems as they adapt to a new life in Canada. The book is described as being a true account, altered only to protect those in potential danger. The author is a member of the Canadian Mennonite family who sponsored the group on their arrival in Canada. The story is told in a straightforward chronological manner that presents the facts in a simple context and concentrates on the reactions of the human characters to their changing circumstances. This is the chief strength of the book, as the reader is given valuable insights into the thoughts and feelings of this recent immigrant group. The Vietnamese are seen as having differences in many details of life but as sharing the same broad human needs and aspirations as other Canadians. The political and philosophical aspectsof the boat people phenomenon are not addressed in any depth, which is perhaps wise, as it is the human features of the story that are of greatest importance. An impressive feature of the story is the absence of melodrama. This is not a story of good versus evil but a simple narration of human reaction to changes that require remarkable powers of adjustment. Highly recommended. John D. Crawford. Frank Hobbs School, Victoria, B.C.