Liberia: 1989. The country is on the brink of civil war, poverty overwhelms the cities and villages, and uncertainty is everywhere. SUNUMA (which means, "on the dump-pile") tells the story of a young boy growing up in the midst of war-torn Liberia. At only 3-months old, little Boikai is found discarded on a dump-pile by an older woman who takes him back to her already crowded home. The stakes for survival are high and he quickly develops the courage, wit, and faith to fend for himself against hunger, abuses, and vicious rebel thugs. Despite all his hardship, Roland recognizes the good things in life: the camaraderie of a boys' club, good books, music, and the smile of a pretty girl. A moving story of tenacity and redemption, this first book of a planned trilogy shows that through persistence, courage, and faith anything can be accomplished. It details Roland Kemokai's journey from a dump-pile baby to the inspirational guide he is today.