Bookseller of Kabul, The
Seierstad, AsneNorwegian journalist Seierstad lived with the Khan family for several months, accompanying family members to work, school, shops and weddings. Her account of her life with them is full of the tragedy, contradictions, rivalries, and the frustrations of daily life for a middle-class family in post-Taliban Kabul. [Larger font]
Comments from Groups
We thought this book was worth reading, but were disturbed and depressed at the life of women depicted. The only male of our bookclub commented that the men were equally deprived and trapped by the traditions too. Dunedin 061 We had a particularly lively discussion on this book which all found a most compelling read. The writer conveyed at times what was a difficult message for a westener to accept. Wellington 117 We all found it difficult to read and sad. The plight of women living in Kabul was very depressing, and it was hard to understand how they can treat people like that. There we were, sitting with our glasses of wine whilst our husbands/partners were babysitting feeling very privledged. Was also insightful and well written. Nelson 055 Liveliest discussion we have had in 2 years. Whilst we disliked some aspects of the treatment of women, we thoroughly enjoyed this insight into another culture and applauded the bravery of the author in writing the book. Auckland 234 Wonderful book that was a real eye opener into the lives of those in Afghanistan, the living conditions, the life of women, the poverty. We had a great discussion. Auckland 157 A very thought provoking book, the stories cover such a range of experience we had an enthusiastic discussion. Nelson 007 A lively discussion about Afghanistan life and family. We wondered if we could have a stranger live with us for that long. An interesting perspective of one Afghan family. Christchurch 010
Pages
276
276
Year
2003
2003
Reviews
28-06-2023
Everyone really appreciated 'The Bookseller of Kabul' both for the information and the writing.
10-08-2020
Much discussion about this book, and the issues it raises. From the right of a Western journalist to accept hospitality then pass judgement on others of a different community, and the information re how people live differently to ourselves.
10-08-2020
Great turnout to meeting. Good discussion had about the roles of men and women. Good questions from the notes. Some members felt they wanted the book to "go somewhere" towards the end - some sort of climax, but this didn't eventuate. Loved the "personification of the burka"!
10-08-2020
Yet another thought-provoking book, that made us aware of the enormous distances between the lives we lead in our democratic and peaceful country, relative to women in other countries, cultures and faiths.
10-08-2020
Enjoyable read, though some members questioned the integrity of the author, and wondered if it was an objective account.
10-08-2020
We found this a distressing story of Afghani women, and the seemingly hopelessness of their ability to find liberation in their culture. Very informative, and it promoted great discussion.
10-08-2020
Very interesting insight. We are so lucky!
10-08-2020
Our readers enjoyed the perspective of this book. Being written by an outsider who is living with the family gave it an interesting slant.
10-08-2020
A very well-written and constructed book. Full of insight into modern Afghanistan and Islam. Easily read, if upsetting at times.
10-04-2018
We had a lively discussion on this book, mostly about the insights it gave about the lives of Afghani women. We did find the categorisation of the book as 'non-fiction' a little odd, given the way the innermost thoughts of some people are revealed and the lack of an overt observer. Someone expressed an optimistic view that the lives of Afghan women are improving as evidenced by the presence of women in government now.
26-03-2018
Generated great discussion on a range of different themes. While we found the hopelessness of the women's lives depressing, we were fascinated by the insights into life behind the burkha. Some of the Sultan's sons had an equally depressing existence. We are all immensely grateful to have been born and raised in the free world.