Countdown to April 17: Part 2

Refugee Loung (pronounced Loo-ONG) Ung told her story of survival five years ago in the best-seller ``First They Killed My Father'' -- a textbook reported now used in some Cambodian schools today to give children an insight into the country grim history.

Joe Milicia of Associated Press gives a terrific profile on how Loung has "weathered the humiliating awkwardness of American puberty". Full access to the three-page piece at The Chanticleer Online requires registration but it is well worth the effort.

She [Loung] turns 35 on Sunday, the 30th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge's takeover of Cambodia. Her brother chose her birthday when he filled out her refugee papers. He did not want her to forget Cambodia.