No Way but Forward

Survival, Resilience, and Hope: Life Stories from the Gaza Strip

No Way but Forward: Life Stories of Three Families in the Gaza Strip by Brian K. Barber is an extraordinary memoir that offers an in-depth look at the personal experiences of three Palestinian families living under the crushing weight of occupation and conflict.

A Raw and Personal Account of Life Under Siege

For over three decades, Barber has had an intimate connection with Hammam, Hussam, and Khalil, the three central figures of the book. Through their stories, readers get a glimpse into the realities of life under the Israeli occupation of Gaza. The book explores themes of political violence, family survival, and personal hope in the face of constant adversity.

Gaza: A Place of Conflict, Yet Hope and Family Endure

The heart of No Way but Forward lies in its portrayal of Palestinian resilience. The stories of Hammam, Hussam, and Khalil are a testament to the unbreakable ties of family and the enduring power of hope. As the occupation continues and violence becomes a part of daily life, these families hold tight to their dignity and dreams. Their narratives include the universal themes of war, resistance, and family life, resilience stories, and inspirational war stories that resonate far beyond Gaza.

The Aftermath of October 7th, 2023: A New Chapter in Survival

The final chapters of No Way but Forward are particularly poignant, recounting the aftermath of the devastating events of October 7th, 2023. These heart-wrenching passages provide a glimpse into the ongoing struggles for survival amid war, revealing the strength of the human spirit as families continue to endure and rebuild.

Why This Book Is a Must-Read?

• Follow the compelling three-decade journey of Hammam, Hussam, and Khalil as they navigate life under occupation and become community leaders.
• Appreciate the visual and narrative excellence, highlighted by the 2025 International Book Award for Best Cover Design and its powerful symbolism of resilience.
• Benefit from the author's extensive credibility as a renowned psychologist and researcher with over 30 years of immersive work in Gaza, supported by his acclaimed studies and prior publications in conflict psychology.
• Understand the human impact of the Israeli-Palestinian situation through personal stories, offering a vital and much-needed perspective for academics, NGOs, policymakers, and human rights advocates