In his groundbreaking new work, No Way but Forward, Brian K. Barber shares the compelling true stories of three men and their families living in Gaza. Spanning over 30 years, the book presents a rare and deeply personal account of life in one of the world’s most misunderstood and misrepresented regions.
Barber introduces readers to Hammam, Hussam, and Khalil—three men of similar backgrounds, each born and raised in Gaza’s refugee camps. Although their paths intersect through shared challenges of economic deprivation and social limitations, their lives take distinctly personal turns. From navigating education and employment to enduring family hardships, these men embody perseverance as they strive to build meaningful lives for themselves and their loved ones.
Through Barber’s careful, empathetic storytelling, readers gain access to the joys and sorrows that define daily life in Gaza. From the triumph of earning a degree to the struggle of providing for a family, these stories transcend borders, reminding us of our shared humanity. Each page reveals moments both intimate and profound: a father debating whether to leave his family for work abroad, a young teacher sharing history erased from textbooks, and a rights advocate enduring personal betrayal in his fight for justice.
Barber’s connection to these families is rooted in decades of research and personal experience. Since his first visit to Gaza in 1995, Barber has returned regularly, building relationships that allow him to tell these stories with rare depth and authenticity. The result is a work that brings readers into homes and lives often overlooked or misunderstood.
Unlike most books about Gaza, No Way but Forward avoids political analysis or historical retellings. Instead, it focuses on the people—ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. Their stories are both heartwarming and heartbreaking, offering a perspective that challenges stereotypes and exposes the vibrancy of life behind the headlines.
As the book’s final chapters address the events following October 7, 2023, readers will gain insight into the unimaginable upheavals faced by these families while witnessing their resolve to keep moving forward.
The book will be released on January 15, 2024. For more information or to arrange an interview, visit bkbarber.com or email [email protected].