When we see streams of refugees, we think we know their basic story. We've heard enough, seen enough, to imagine we have some idea of what they're running from and why. Not the details - not the individual experiences, but the general shape and contours of war and fear and hunger.
Each one of those people, and families have a story to tell that individually would make a compelling novel were it fiction. The dangers they've faced, the decisions they've made, the risks they've taken. The terrors of separation, and for some the tainted elation of reunion for broken and shattered families. Journies of thousands of miles, against overwhelming odds. Of unlikely survivals, of cruelty and bravery, of horror and redemption.
So many tales.
Here's one of them:
http://www.theguardian.com/world/201...ighbours-raqqa