Lion: A Long Way Home

Saroo Brierley

Jun 2013 · Penguin Group Australia

About this ebook

A true story of survival and triumph against incredible odds, as seen on 60 Minutes
When Saroo Brierley used Google Earth to find his long-lost home town half a world away, he made global headlines.
Saroo had become lost on a train in India at the age of five. Not knowing the name of his family or where he was from, he survived for weeks on the streets of Kolkata, before being taken into an orphanage and adopted by a couple in Australia.
Despite being happy in his new family, Saroo always wondered about his origins. He spent hours staring at the map of India on his bedroom wall. When he was a young man the advent of Google Earth led him to pore over satellite images of the country for landmarks he recognised. And one day, after years of searching, he miraculously found what he was looking for.
Then he set off on a journey to find his mother.
A Long Way Home is a moving and inspirational true story that celebrates the importance of never letting go of what drives the human spirit – hope.

'We urge you to step behind the headlines and have a read of this absorbing account ... With clear recollections and good old-fashioned storytelling, Saroo ... recalls the fear of being lost and the anguish of separation.' Weekly Review

'A remarkable story ... [Brierley] provides an informative and fascinating insight into how Third World families live with, and somehow survive, their poverty.' Saturday Age
'★★★★★ I literally could not put this book down ... [Saroo's] return journey will leave you weeping with joy and the strength of the human spirit.' Manly Daily
'A feel-good read about a remarkable journey.' Sun-Herald
'As well as the tale of his quest, he provides an informative and fascinating insight into how Third World families live with, and somehow survive, their poverty.' The Age


'An incredible story of how one boy survived and prevailed through extreme circumstances to change his fortunes.' femail.com.au

Ratings and reviews

An amazing story, dividing itself almost equally between the actual journey and his attempt as an adult to reunite with his Indian family. As with so many of these memoirs I am amazed at the detail that the person remembered. I have very little detail of mine though I suppose I never went through such life events. Suitable for most ages from about 9 years up. Not a difficult read and not too horrendous in retelling the events.

Such an interesting read, thoroughly enjoyed reading about the journey of such a courageous boy/man and the trials and tribulations of everyone involved. Much respect to all.

Saw the movie, liked it. Read the book, loved it. The book kept going, after the movie had finished. Very well written, Saroo is a gifted story teller perhaps he could write another book, please, your prose is great. Uplifting and encompassing.

About the author

Saroo Brierley was born in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, India. He lives in Hobart, Tasmania.