Survivor, Scientist, Olympian - the Nary Ly Story

Survivor, Scientist, Olympian - the Nary Ly Story

How a Child of the Killing Fields Ran an Olympic Marathon and Inspired Her Broken Nation



is a poignant and inspiring memoir of success against extreme odds. It traces the life of a young girl who endured the horrors of Cambodia's infamous Khmer Rouge regime, then found haven in a new country, France. Fostered by a family there, she went on to become an infectious disease scientist, and run an Olympic marathon. At the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Nary was a proud impromptu flagbearer for Cambodia crossing the finish line.



Rich in anecdotes and characters, The Nary Ly Story is moving and emotional, mixing tears and laughter. It explores how we acquire knowledge, motivation, and the ability to set a vision for life. It's a testament to one woman's dream to represent her struggling country and build the Olympic spirit of international unity.