'Lost Boy' seeks help in educating native Sudan

Sixteen years after leaving his war-ravaged hometown in Sudan in 1987, Valentino Achak Deng said he didn't recognize it when he returned in 2003.

Skeletal frames of homes and people remained, and Deng - the fictionalized character in this year's One Book, One Philadelphia selection, "What is the What" - said he felt more conflicted than when he first left.

He vowed to weary family members and friends that when he returned home, it would be to create educational opportunities for the residents of Marial Bai, in southern Sudan.

To accomplish this mission, Deng said he needs help.

Last night, during the final event for the citywide reading project at the Free Library, he and Dave Eggers, the book's author, asked hundreds of attendees to support Deng's cause.

"I'm grateful to the city of Philadelphia and the people itself that found reason to accept [the book]," Deng said.

Eggers agreed, adding, "Everyone that's read the book is a participant in Valentino's project."

"What is the What" chronicles the harrowing journey of Deng and other "Lost Boys" of Sudan to safety during the civil war.

Deng said he has used some of proceeds from book sales to help fund the construction of Marial Bai's first library.

He also plans to build a high school and community center, but says he needs additional funding.

"I feel like I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing," Deng said. "It's about educating people . . . and helping my hometown."

To contribute to The Valentino Achak Deng Foundation, visit www.valentinoachakdeng.org. *