The Bookseller of Kabul
Registered by EMA375 on 4/9/2005
27 journalers for this copy...
From Amazon:
For more than twenty years, Sultan Khan has defied the authorities, whether communist or Taliban, to supply books to the people of Kabul. He has been arrested, interrogated, and imprisoned, and has watched illiterate Taliban soldiers burn piles of his books in the street. Yet he has persisted in his passion for books, shedding light in one of the world's darkest places. This is the intimate portrait of a man of principle and of his family - two wives, five children, and many relatives sharing a small four-room apartment in this war-ravaged city. As they endure the extraordinary trials and tensions of Afghanistan's upheavals, they also still try to live ordinary lives, with work, relaxation, shopping, cooking, marriages, rivalries, and shared joys. Most of all, this is an intimate portrait of family life under Islam. Even after the Taliban's collapse, the women in Khan's family must submit to arranged marriages, polygamous husbands, and crippling limitations on their ability to travel, learn, and communicate with others. Seierstad lived with Khan's family for months, experiencing first-hand Afghani life as few outsiders have seen it. Stepping back from the page, she allows the Khans to speak for themselves, giving us a genuinely gripping and moving portrait of a family, and of a country of great cultural riches and extreme contradictions.
For more than twenty years, Sultan Khan has defied the authorities, whether communist or Taliban, to supply books to the people of Kabul. He has been arrested, interrogated, and imprisoned, and has watched illiterate Taliban soldiers burn piles of his books in the street. Yet he has persisted in his passion for books, shedding light in one of the world's darkest places. This is the intimate portrait of a man of principle and of his family - two wives, five children, and many relatives sharing a small four-room apartment in this war-ravaged city. As they endure the extraordinary trials and tensions of Afghanistan's upheavals, they also still try to live ordinary lives, with work, relaxation, shopping, cooking, marriages, rivalries, and shared joys. Most of all, this is an intimate portrait of family life under Islam. Even after the Taliban's collapse, the women in Khan's family must submit to arranged marriages, polygamous husbands, and crippling limitations on their ability to travel, learn, and communicate with others. Seierstad lived with Khan's family for months, experiencing first-hand Afghani life as few outsiders have seen it. Stepping back from the page, she allows the Khans to speak for themselves, giving us a genuinely gripping and moving portrait of a family, and of a country of great cultural riches and extreme contradictions.
Bookring Members: (started 5/19/05)Icila FRANCE (SHIP INTL)
JeSuisBelle PHILIPPINES (SHIP ASIA/INTL)
EnchantedWoods AUSTRALIA (SHIP INTL)
stodmyk CANADA (SHIP INTL)
Rrrcaron NH (SHIP INTL)
added > dospescados NY (SHIP US)
Please Return To:
EMA375 CA
It arrived safely today. I will start reading it this weekend and pass along as soon as possible. Thanks for sharing!
I really enjoyed this book! I like finally knowing a little about the people who live in the country we hear about on the news every day. I expected it to be more about the 'bookseller' himself, but found it was more about his family and his influence over them. Will send to Amber101 today.
Sorry, my computer was down. I received this book about a week ago and read it cover to cover in a few days.
Wow! This book was wonderful! I was outraged, I cried, I felt hope... it was just a great book. I hope the Seierstad plans on doing an update on the family, Especially Leila.
I'm pm'ing the next person on the list now.
Wow! This book was wonderful! I was outraged, I cried, I felt hope... it was just a great book. I hope the Seierstad plans on doing an update on the family, Especially Leila.
I'm pm'ing the next person on the list now.
I'm looking forward to this, but I do have a few rings ahead of it. Thanks!
I thought this book would be more about selling books than it was about the bookseller's family, but it was very good nonetheless. I guess I thought life for those in Afghanistan would somehow be magically better once the Taliban was gone, but I think I realize more that it will take decades, really before it starts getting better over there.
Reserved for the next reader.
Reserved for the next reader.
Journal Entry 8 by MollyGrue at In The Mail in Bookring, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases on Saturday, July 2, 2005
Released 18 yrs ago (7/2/2005 UTC) at In The Mail in Bookring, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases
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Sent to Vcrain. Happy reading!
DC# 03022940000169565790
Sent to Vcrain. Happy reading!
DC# 03022940000169565790
got this tonight. I have one ray before this one, but it is a small book so I should be able to start reading this at the end of the week.
pm the next person on the list. I thought this book was ok.
sent to the next person this morning by media mail. it is only supposed to take 2 days since it I mailed it from Bethesda Md
It only took one day! It's two minutes to midnight, and I got it. I found the book when I got home from work tonight.
I loved The Kite Runner and look forward to delving more deeply into the Afghan culture.
I loved The Kite Runner and look forward to delving more deeply into the Afghan culture.
I ended up liking this book much more than I thought I would. I appreciated how the author not only presented the life of one family in Afghanistan but also explained a lot of the customs throughout the book.
I tried to be non-judgemental as I read this book and simply let myself feel what it must be like to live as a woman in Afghanistan. I discovered that, even with the fall of the Taliban, life went on pretty much as it always had. I found the experience of reading about this culture fascinating.
Thanks, EMA375, for sharing this book with me.
BTW, there is now a black "scribble" on the border of this book. It happened inadvertently when the book (which was in my beach bag) came into contact with my pen (which was also in my beach bag). I'm truly sorry about that. If this is a problem for you (or any other reader), please PM me privately. Thanks.
The book is now in the mail to MaryZee.
I tried to be non-judgemental as I read this book and simply let myself feel what it must be like to live as a woman in Afghanistan. I discovered that, even with the fall of the Taliban, life went on pretty much as it always had. I found the experience of reading about this culture fascinating.
Thanks, EMA375, for sharing this book with me.
BTW, there is now a black "scribble" on the border of this book. It happened inadvertently when the book (which was in my beach bag) came into contact with my pen (which was also in my beach bag). I'm truly sorry about that. If this is a problem for you (or any other reader), please PM me privately. Thanks.
The book is now in the mail to MaryZee.
Received this in the mail. I have several other bookrings here now. Will get to this one, and update here, as soon as I can.
9/9/05 - Starting on this now.
9/9/05 - Starting on this now.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and it was quick, too. I've read several similar types of books this year. This was one of the best since the journalist kept herself out of the story. Rather than reporting on how she came into their lives, and her opinions, she reported on the lives of those around her as she observed things happening. But it was so much more than that. It read almost as a novel, even though you knew these were actual people living their lives.
As others have said, this was more about Sultan Khan's family than his life as a bookseller. Although it was interesting to learn that rather than just selling books, he was also responsible for having them printed - to make them available for the people that wanted them, rather than getting them from the West. Hmm, not sure how I feel about this - the whole copyright/royalties issue vs. would the people over there even have access to Western books? (Does the good outweigh the evil? Boy, we sure could go down that road when discussing Afghanistan, couldn't we?)
Also, the whole women's rights thing. When I first started reading books that shed light on this issue, I could never understand how women could survive living in such an oppressive regime. (Although this story does take place after the Taliban has lost power, it still discusses the issues.) But as I've read several different takes on this, I feel sorry for the ones who grew up knowing no different, and now that they have (relatively) more freedom, are afraid to take advantage of it. And shame on the men who repress intelligent, valuable women!
EMA375, thanks so much for sharing your book. Sent to Nancyluvsbooks on Tuesday, 9/13/05.
As others have said, this was more about Sultan Khan's family than his life as a bookseller. Although it was interesting to learn that rather than just selling books, he was also responsible for having them printed - to make them available for the people that wanted them, rather than getting them from the West. Hmm, not sure how I feel about this - the whole copyright/royalties issue vs. would the people over there even have access to Western books? (Does the good outweigh the evil? Boy, we sure could go down that road when discussing Afghanistan, couldn't we?)
Also, the whole women's rights thing. When I first started reading books that shed light on this issue, I could never understand how women could survive living in such an oppressive regime. (Although this story does take place after the Taliban has lost power, it still discusses the issues.) But as I've read several different takes on this, I feel sorry for the ones who grew up knowing no different, and now that they have (relatively) more freedom, are afraid to take advantage of it. And shame on the men who repress intelligent, valuable women!
EMA375, thanks so much for sharing your book. Sent to Nancyluvsbooks on Tuesday, 9/13/05.
Received in the mail from Maryzee yesterday. I look forward to reading this one!
I really wanted to read this book, but I can tell that, because of other reading commitments, I'm not going to have time to read it before it's time to pass it on to the next person in the book ring. Therefore, I'm going to mail it to gkonkler5 ASAP, and I will get another copy later.
Mailed to gkonkler5 today in the book ring.
Received today in the mail. I have a couple rings/rays before this but promise to get to it ASAP!
Didn't get a chance to read this yet and don't want to hold things up. Sending on to the UK. Can't wait till it comes back around.
Arrived safely today. Thank you gkonkler5 and EMA375. I should be able to start it very soon.
Journal Entry 22 by ScottishHoosier from Westhill, Scotland United Kingdom on Friday, December 16, 2005
Came today with the post. I'm already reading a bookring book, so will have to finish that one first. Hopefully I can get it read over Christmas, when we go off to visit my in-laws. If the kids are good, I should get some reading done in the car!
Thank you, nyassa, for sending it, and EMA375 for sharing with us!
Merry Christmas to you all!!
Thank you, nyassa, for sending it, and EMA375 for sharing with us!
Merry Christmas to you all!!
Journal Entry 23 by ScottishHoosier from Westhill, Scotland United Kingdom on Friday, December 30, 2005
A very interesting read, I really got caught up in all these people's lives. I am very thankful that I am not a part of this society, but am glad the country seems to be changing. I need to take time to see what it is like now, but how? I don't suppose Seierstad has written a sequel.
I really hope Leila is happy now. For some reason I found her story particularly touching.
PM'ing skribble for address, but I'm certain I won't get a chance to post it until the New Year.
I really hope Leila is happy now. For some reason I found her story particularly touching.
PM'ing skribble for address, but I'm certain I won't get a chance to post it until the New Year.
Journal Entry 24 by ScottishHoosier from Westhill, Scotland United Kingdom on Monday, January 2, 2006
skribble got this book for Christmas and has asked to be skipped. I have kinedi's address and hope to get the book to the post office tomorrow. Happy New Year all.
Finally taking to the post office today, 4 January 2006.
Finally taking to the post office today, 4 January 2006.
Arrived with thanks. Have been wanting to read this book for a very long time and have a fair bit of travelling to do the next few weeks so will be looking forward to some good reading material !
Journal Entry 26 by 
kinedi
from Rushyford, County Durham United Kingdom on Thursday, January 19, 2006
kinedi from Rushyford, County Durham United Kingdom on Thursday, January 19, 2006
Thanks for this wonderful bookr EMA375. I found it utterly fascinating and also sad at the same time. We take so many things for granted in our (Western) life and I can't possibly imagine what it must be like not to be able to listen to music, to go out by yourself, to talk to a man and to choose your own destiny. I felt particularly sorry for Leila, Sultan's youngest daughter and her only purpose in life being a servant for her family.
The book certainly gave me a good insight into life in Afghanistan and the ways of Islam and I will surely recommend this book to others.
Just awaiting JeSuisBelle's address now and then book can continue its journey.
UPDATE 31/01/06
Am not receiving any replies from JeSuisBelle so am now PM'ing Enchanted Woods for his/her address
UPDATE 17/02/06
Not having much luck with Enchanted Woods either.Send several PM's over the last 2 weeks and no reply so will move on to Sqdancer now.
UPDATE 20/02/06
Sorry about the awful delay but the book is now finally on the move again
The book certainly gave me a good insight into life in Afghanistan and the ways of Islam and I will surely recommend this book to others.
Just awaiting JeSuisBelle's address now and then book can continue its journey.
UPDATE 31/01/06
Am not receiving any replies from JeSuisBelle so am now PM'ing Enchanted Woods for his/her address
UPDATE 17/02/06
Not having much luck with Enchanted Woods either.Send several PM's over the last 2 weeks and no reply so will move on to Sqdancer now.
UPDATE 20/02/06
Sorry about the awful delay but the book is now finally on the move again
Released 18 yrs ago (2/20/2006 UTC) at
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Now on it's way to sqdancer in Canada
Now on it's way to sqdancer in Canada
Arrived safe and sound. I'm looking forward to reading this book. Thank you, EMA375, for sharing it; and thanks to kinedi, for shipping it to Canada.
Very interesting. Like that old saying, "the more things change, the more they stay the same".
I have just PM'ed stodmyk for the THIRD time. If I get no response, I will post an ISO.
I have just PM'ed stodmyk for the THIRD time. If I get no response, I will post an ISO.
No response from stodmyk and EMA375 has asked me to skip Rrrcaron, so I have PM'ed sabeena29 for her mailing info.
Very sorry for the delay in mailing. I've been working long hours and have finally made it to the post office.
Sent off to sabeena29 via air mail.
Sent off to sabeena29 via air mail.
Journal Entry 32 by sabeena29 from not specified, not specified not specified on Wednesday, April 19, 2006
received today- have been wanting to read this one for awhile- will get to asap- thanks EMA375 for hosting and to the other participants for helping it travel thus far.
Journal Entry 33 by sabeena29 from not specified, not specified not specified on Thursday, May 11, 2006
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was good to see an inside account of one family in a place we hear so many things about in the daily news. I was unsure what to expect after reading the prologue and was happy that the author told the story without including herself in it. I also would be interested in reading a follow-up. Sending to gkonkler5 today as dospescados is not receiving rings/rays this month as she/he is moving. Thanks EMA375 and all of the participants for sharing this interesting and enlightening story.
Received today! I've already read the first chapter and think this will be one of those that I wonder why I put it off so long.
Sending back to EMA375. Thanks so much for sharing!
Arrived home safely. Hope you all enjoyed this book.
Thank you so much! I rec'd this book safe and sound in the mail today! I'm eager to start it, but I have a ray ahead of it, and then I'm going to offer this one as a ray, also, so I'm motivated to read it SOON!!! Thanks again, EMA375!
Added later: Announced as a bookray on the "Wish List" Forum ...
UnwrittenLibra In Maryland (Shipping Preference: Anywhere!)
CynthiaA in Canada (Shipping Preference: US or Canada)
Ilios in Florida (Shipping Preference: US or Canada!)
PassionToRead in Pennsylvania (Shipping Preference: International OK)
Cassiopeia in Wales, UK (Shipping Preference: Within Europe)
Dutchbooky The Netherlands (Shipping Preference: Europe)
Rapturina in The Netherlands (Shipping Preference: Within Europe)
It's Here! Boirina in Portugal (Shipping Preference: Within Europe!)
Niora in Finland (Shipping Preference: Anywhere!)
March 31, 2007: It's way after midnight, and I am still awake and reading. I started this book today, and I'm really happy that I did! I won't be able to finish it as part of my March Challenge, but definately April! My husband calls it the "ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE MORE BOOK IN THIS HOUSE" Challenge. It's really a "ONE MONTH TBR-ONLY" Challenge! (Link to March's One Month TBR-Only Challenge)
This book wasn't on my TBR pile. On my wish list, yes, but my TBR pile, no. So, I had to pay a consequence for receiving it, but I willingly registered and released two additional books for the privilege of being able to read this!
I've PMed the BookCrossers who joined the book ray to let them know that the ray will start as soon as I finish the book ... The Bookseller of Kabul is about to see the world!
Added April 6, 2007: Finishing this book as we speak! I really am enjoying it ... it made the events in Afghanistan seem more real to learn about them through the way they effect people's lives instead of reading about it in the newspaper. So, now the book begins its journey as a new book ray! I'm mailing it out tomorrow ...
Journal Entry 39 by 
Dove-i-Libri
at -- By Hand Or Post, Ray/Ring, RABCK, Meet-Up in Fort Myers, Florida USA on Friday, April 6, 2007
Dove-i-Libri at -- By Hand Or Post, Ray/Ring, RABCK, Meet-Up in Fort Myers, Florida USA on Friday, April 6, 2007
Released 17 yrs ago (4/7/2007 UTC) at -- By Hand Or Post, Ray/Ring, RABCK, Meet-Up in Fort Myers, Florida USA
WILD RELEASE NOTES:
Sent via media mail ... Happy Traveling, Book!
Got it today in the mail! It was waiting for me when I got back from school. I'll get on it soon. Thanks!
I was so glad to get my hands on this book, but I have to say, it was somewhat of a disappointment. There was no real "story arc," there never seemed to be a main character, and overall, it didn't flow well. Nonetheless, it was a fair read and I'm glad to have read it. Provided some insight into a dark and elusive world.
Today, I put this book in the mail to Cynthia in Toronto at the post office in Riderwood, Maryland. Happy travels and happy reading, Cynthia!
Received safe and sound. Finishing one bookring, and will get to this one next. Thanks! What fun, to read a book which has been in the hands of so many other esteemed Bookcrossers!
Hi, I received this book earlier this week but didn't have a chance to journal it until now. I've heard really good things about it and I am looking forward to reading it. Unfortunately, as it is often the case in the Bookcrossing universe, when it rains, it pours. :o) I am currently reading 2 rings, and I have another one waiting. I will get to this book as soon as I am done with the three previous ones. Thanks for sharing!
This book was very interesting and unique. I think one of its best qualities is the telling of several decades of history through the voices of different members of a family, bridging different ages, genders, generations, and points of view.
This book left a bitter taste in my mouth because I couldn't help thinking "this is a `liberal` patriarch. Imagine the life of women with a less well-read and well-educated head of the family". As the author points out in the epilogue, Sultan was a typical male, a product of his generation and his culture. The authenticity of this book comes from the author's ability to present this and other characters with all their contradictions.
I will definitely keep an eye out for other books from this author. Thanks again for sharing. I will be sending this out to PassiontoRead later this week.
This book left a bitter taste in my mouth because I couldn't help thinking "this is a `liberal` patriarch. Imagine the life of women with a less well-read and well-educated head of the family". As the author points out in the epilogue, Sultan was a typical male, a product of his generation and his culture. The authenticity of this book comes from the author's ability to present this and other characters with all their contradictions.
I will definitely keep an eye out for other books from this author. Thanks again for sharing. I will be sending this out to PassiontoRead later this week.
Received safely in the mail today. Very anxious to start reading this book since everyone seemed to really like it. I have two bookrings in front of this one but will try to get it read and traveling in a reasonable amount of time. Thanks so much for sharing.
This book was an eye opener, although I had known about the customs of the afghans, it still was quite shocking to read what the lives of the women were like. I thought the book was very well written and I really enjoyed it. It hit home a bit with the references to 9-11, especially when the hotel had a picture of New York City with the twin towers still standing and some of the afghans didn't even know what the picture was. I love to read books about other cultures but after this book I am welcoming a nice, plain, makes you feel good story. I have the book ready to be mailed on Monday to Cassiopeia. Thanks so much to DoveiLibri for sharing.
Sincere apologies passiontoread, this book arrived a few days ago. I was sure I journalled it, I certainly maked it on my profile, I think I must have forgotten to click on submit! So sorry, it is here and safe. It in next TBR.
I have just finished this book, and found it very well written and very accessible, I particularly like the author’s style of eliminating herself from the story, which in my opinion drew me in more and allowed me to see it through my own eyes. Her attention to the small everyday details really brought this account to life, I could feel the heat and sweat, taste the dust and smell the many odours under the all-pervading burka. This story allowed us an exceptional insight into the life of an Afghan family. Focusing on different members of the family gave it a multi-dimensional feeling and really brought home how even within one family, each member nurtures their own desires, often in silence, with no hope of having them fulfilled. In many ways Sultan Khan was an intriguing individual, but he too, was shaped by his time, his family and his culture.
Hardtalk Extra Interview
Guardian Online
Hardtalk Extra Interview
Guardian Online
Posted Airmail to day to Dutchbooky, hoping to avoid the last minute Christmas rush.
Journal Entry 51 by dutchbooky from Amsterdam, Noord-Holland Netherlands on Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Thanks Cassiopaeia! It arrived today with no delay at all! I just mailed out my last ringbook, so I can start in this one right away! Thanks for sharing DoveiLibri!
I too found this an agreeable book to read and I can relate to many of Cassiopaeia's comments! I do feel, however, very sorry for the women in this story, especially Leila. I can imagine that Seierstad sometimes wept for her. I wanted to do the same. Such a shame that culture and circumstances can determine one's life so much! I really hope that this will change for the people living in Afghanistan.
I will mail this to Rapturina on Tuesday!
I will mail this to Rapturina on Tuesday!
Journal Entry 53 by rapturina from Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland Netherlands on Thursday, January 10, 2008
It's here! Thanks for sending it on, Dutchbooky!
I'm really looking forward to reading this book as I have a sneaking suspicion I will find it very interesting. Unfortunately I have three books ahead of it. :D I'm a quick reader though, so no worries, I'll send it on in a timely manner.
I'm really looking forward to reading this book as I have a sneaking suspicion I will find it very interesting. Unfortunately I have three books ahead of it. :D I'm a quick reader though, so no worries, I'll send it on in a timely manner.
Journal Entry 54 by rapturina from Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland Netherlands on Saturday, January 26, 2008
I finished reading this a few days ago, and whereas I did find it very interesting, I didn't really get into the story. I didn't really feel a connection with the characters, but maybe that's because they lead such different lives? Anyway, I did like the book, it was interesting to read about the family and their traditions and way of life. It was a very good insight into the daily life of a family in Afghanistan, a country & culture I find absolutely fascinating.
If you're really interested in Afghanistan, I can also very much recommend The Sleeping Buddha: The Story of Afghanistan through the Eyes of One Family (Hamida Chafour), which I've read a while ago and found very interesting, especially when you want to learn more about the political history of the country.
Sent to boirina today!
If you're really interested in Afghanistan, I can also very much recommend The Sleeping Buddha: The Story of Afghanistan through the Eyes of One Family (Hamida Chafour), which I've read a while ago and found very interesting, especially when you want to learn more about the political history of the country.
Sent to boirina today!
Journal Entry 55 by boirina from Mallorca - Calvià, Illes Balears/Islas Baleares Spain on Monday, February 4, 2008
The book got here safely today!
Journal Entry 56 by boirina from Mallorca - Calvià, Illes Balears/Islas Baleares Spain on Friday, May 2, 2008
The book is leaving for Niora in Finland today.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I found it disturbing in a way, but I can't really explain why.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I found it disturbing in a way, but I can't really explain why.
Journal Entry 57 by 
Niora
from Kuopio, Pohjois-Savo / Norra Savolax Finland on Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Niora from Kuopio, Pohjois-Savo / Norra Savolax Finland on Wednesday, May 7, 2008
The book arrived safely in the mail today. Thanks Boirina and DoveiLibri! It's so great to meet a book that has travelled so widely and been in so many bookcrossers' hands before me.
I seem to be the last ray participant, so after I've read the book I'll have to see what to do with it next. Perhaps a RABCK...
I seem to be the last ray participant, so after I've read the book I'll have to see what to do with it next. Perhaps a RABCK...
Journal Entry 58 by Niora from Kuopio, Pohjois-Savo / Norra Savolax Finland on Thursday, May 22, 2008
Niora from Kuopio, Pohjois-Savo / Norra Savolax Finland on Thursday, May 22, 2008
I've read it now. It's an interesting story and, from the female point of view, quite a distressing one - I felt so sorry for many of the females of the family, particularly poor young Leila. I liked the way each family member was presented from several points of view, though: as much as I hated the way e.g. Sultan Khan and Mazur treat the women of the family, that isn't all that they are.
The book made me think about lots of different things, about the present-day Afghanistan and culture and the relationships of men and women and family members of course, but also of the way Seierstad got this story to write at all. She lived with the family for three months (and I guess that could only ever have been possible for a female journalist), and I can't help wondering what the effect of her presence on the behavior of various family members may have been while she was there. Interestingly, excluding the foreword and the epilogue, she has written herself completely out of the story.
Thanks again for the bookray, DoveiLibri! I'm now going to pass this book around here in Finland as a small bookring, after which I plan to send it to some Australian bookcrosser (several seem to have this one on their wish lists) so that its travels around the world will continue. Bookring participants here in Finland so far:
* Liinuskainen, Lehmo
* Lottuli, Helsinki
One month per reader, PM me if interested in participating (Finnish BCers only).
The book made me think about lots of different things, about the present-day Afghanistan and culture and the relationships of men and women and family members of course, but also of the way Seierstad got this story to write at all. She lived with the family for three months (and I guess that could only ever have been possible for a female journalist), and I can't help wondering what the effect of her presence on the behavior of various family members may have been while she was there. Interestingly, excluding the foreword and the epilogue, she has written herself completely out of the story.
Thanks again for the bookray, DoveiLibri! I'm now going to pass this book around here in Finland as a small bookring, after which I plan to send it to some Australian bookcrosser (several seem to have this one on their wish lists) so that its travels around the world will continue. Bookring participants here in Finland so far:
* Liinuskainen, Lehmo
* Lottuli, Helsinki
One month per reader, PM me if interested in participating (Finnish BCers only).
Journal Entry 59 by Liinuskainen from Lieksa, Pohjois-Karjala / Norra Karelen Finland on Friday, May 30, 2008
Niora gave this to me yesterday, thank you kindly!
Journal Entry 60 by Liinuskainen from Lieksa, Pohjois-Karjala / Norra Karelen Finland on Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Very strong and touching story. Makes me think that in a way we all are “products” of our own culture. And there are lots of things in my life that I take for granted.
This will now go to Lottuli as we meet next weekend in Kesäpäivät meeting.
This will now go to Lottuli as we meet next weekend in Kesäpäivät meeting.
Journal Entry 61 by lottuli from Pieksämäki, Etelä-Savo / Södra Savolax Finland on Sunday, June 8, 2008
The book is now with me! Thank you all for sharing!
Special thanks to Niora and Liinuskainen, it was pleasure to meet you both at Finnish Summer Convention at Suomenlinna!
Special thanks to Niora and Liinuskainen, it was pleasure to meet you both at Finnish Summer Convention at Suomenlinna!
Journal Entry 62 by lottuli from Pieksämäki, Etelä-Savo / Södra Savolax Finland on Monday, July 7, 2008
The book was really good read. Only thing bothering me, was the fact that all the interviewed persons did not speak English and Asne Seierstad did not speak their language dari(?). Just makes me wonder has anything in the book been affected by the fact that it was interpreted during the interview?
I've been reading recently a lot of books about Afghanistan and this story gave me one more view of the country, and I'm looking forward to read more!
Niora had plans for the book, so we'll see where it goes next!
I've been reading recently a lot of books about Afghanistan and this story gave me one more view of the country, and I'm looking forward to read more!
Niora had plans for the book, so we'll see where it goes next!
What a lovely surprise! I wasn't expecting any books, so I was very happily surprised to see a packet waiting for me when I came back from work.
Thank you so much lottuli for sending me this well-travelled book! I will read it soon and pass it on so that it can continue on its travels around the world.
Thank you so much lottuli for sending me this well-travelled book! I will read it soon and pass it on so that it can continue on its travels around the world.
I haven't been keeping my journalling up to date lately. I finished this book a month ago and am only now getting to journal it.
It's a very interesting book on the story of a family in troubled Kabul, a family that has lived through decades of unrest.
I particularly liked Leila, a young woman stuck in her country's old rules and ideals. Things are changing in Afghanistan, but only very slowly. I felt sad for Leila who, despite all her hard efforts and the risks she took to try and change her life, hit the thick wall of old customs.
I will try and find someone in Australia who has this book on their wishlist, to keep it moving.
It's a very interesting book on the story of a family in troubled Kabul, a family that has lived through decades of unrest.
I particularly liked Leila, a young woman stuck in her country's old rules and ideals. Things are changing in Afghanistan, but only very slowly. I felt sad for Leila who, despite all her hard efforts and the risks she took to try and change her life, hit the thick wall of old customs.
I will try and find someone in Australia who has this book on their wishlist, to keep it moving.
