Women in Somalia

Author Nuruddin Farah came from a long line of poets and storytellers; he was one of first to use Somalia's written language, which was developed in the 60s. Prior to that, he wrote in English. He's recently had several books published in the United States. Farah, who's currently in exile in Nigeria, will discuss Somalia's culture and history.

One of Africa's greatest novelists, Nuruddin Farah (New-ru-DEAN Fair-ah). He was born in what is now known as the Somalian Republic. He writes in English, and his work has been widely praised for its treatment of women. His books include, "From A Crooked Rib," "A Naked Needle," and a trilogy, "Variations on an African Dictatorship." For a long time Farah was living in exile because of a death sentence placed against him for his writing. It has since been lifted.

Kidnapped by Somali pirates, journalist Michael Scott Moore spent two and half years in captivity. At times he was held on land, other times at sea. Once, when he was on a 160-foot tuna boat, he tried to escape by jumping over the side at night.