My memory of the book is that it shows a person can survive anything at all in life if he/she truly believes that they were put on this on earth to fulfill a unique purpose.
It is an encouraging account of how hope can make champions of everyday people, by exploring the impact of hope and attitudes triumphing over surroundings, abuse and hatred. The author is very honest in his account of the situation he was in, and equally as honest in his assessment of how different people's attitudes and behaviours led to hope or despair.
I thought recommend this book to anyone who is going through hard times and questioning the validity of their purpose in life.