I really wanted to like this book. The writer was a similar age to me and Afghanistan is a fascinating country - unfortunately I found I had little empathy with the author which meant the book didn't really gain momentum beyond a factual review of the country

This book has had reviews from 6 people who each gave it a 5 star rating. 5 of those people reviewed it within a few days of each other and none of the reviewers have ever reviewed any other books before or since.

Having read this book I have a better idea of the complexities of Afghan history and politics. More than anything, it was the sadness of leaving your home, your culture and your family, and then returning to find such a totally different place, that struck me most. Those of us who are free and live in "civilised democracies" do not realise how lucky we are. Everyone should read this book.

From the moment I picked up the book to the very last page I was captivated by the description and history in the book. Whether you're an Afghanistan-phile or a complete newbie to the subject the book must be required reading. When set against the current problems facing Afghanistan the book is a useful guide to a fiercely complicated history and present of Afghan society.

This book is a joy to read. The author brings the subject to life even though it must have been a painful personal journey, not just when she was a reporter in Afghanistan but when she was writing about her own and her family's past, intertwined as they are with the history of Afghanistan. Yet she has produced such a moving, evocative and clear-sighted book. It is a tremendous achievement. Instead of the usual gloomy media portrayal, Afghanistan emerges in its true colours - a beautiful country and an old civilisation.
Rebecca Eliahoo