In the heart of the Kenyan desert lies Dadaab, a sprawling refugee camp that is home to half a million souls seeking refuge from the storms of conflict, famine, and despair. "City of Thorns" by Ben Rawlence is a masterful tapestry that weaves together the poignant, often harrowing stories of nine individuals who find themselves in this purgatory. Through their eyes, Rawlence offers a ground-level view of life in the world's largest refugee camp, where hope and suffering are constant companions, and where humanity is tested in the crucible of survival. Rawlence's narrative transcends mere reportage, delving deep into the geopolitical maelstrom that continues to feed Dadaab's ever-swelling numbers. With a novelist's touch and the rigor of a seasoned journalist, he exposes the complex interplay of international politics, local power struggles, and the indomitable spirit of those who call Dadaab home. "City of Thorns" is not only an intimate exploration of the human condition in extreme circumstances but also a critical commentary on the global response to an ongoing humanitarian crisis. It is a compelling call to action, a reminder that behind the statistics are individuals, each with a story, each clinging to a fragile dream of a better life.