A People Tall and Smooth: Stories of Escape from Sudan to Israel

These are the very real stories of how and why five Sudanese refugees escaped the genocide in South Sudan and Darfur, made their way through Egypt and smuggled into Israel, the only country their Islamic government prohibited them from entering. They fled across the border with nothing but the clothes on their backs. No food. No money. No papers. No possessions. Just thankful to be alive.

The popular beach town of Eilat, at the southernmost tip of Israel, is visited daily by international tourists who want to visit the warm waters of the Red Sea. But when hundreds of Central Africans show up to stay, curiosities are piqued. Where did they come from? Why are they in Eilat, of all places? When a group of these tall, dark-skinned people enter The Shelter Hostel run by John & Judy Pex, answers to these questions unfold.

Praise for A People Tall and Smooth:

'Although much has been written about the Lost Boys of Sudan who resettled in large groups in the United States beginning in 2000, very little, if anything, has been written about the countless Sudanese who fled alone to neighboring countries. Judith Pex breaks the silence, unfolding the perilous journeys of Sudanese refugees. For many it was a choice that came at tremendous cost: imprisonment, separation from their children and spouses, hunger, brutal beatings and death. It's a story of resilience, determination and the choice for freedom--at all cost.'

--Joan Hecht, award-winning author of The Journey of the Lost Boys

'The breadth and depth of A People Tall and Smooth is quite breathtaking…. It deserves a wide audience.'

--David Price, retired Rector of Christ Church in Jerusalem

'As I read A People Tall and Smooth, I was impressed with the heart Judith and John have for the people of all nations and tongues. Be prepared to be challenged, encouraged, and touched as you read the stories of these amazing Sudanese Christians.'

--Marjorie Vawter, author and blogger