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37 pages 1 hour read

Gayle Tzemach Lemmon

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana: Five Sisters, One Remarkable Family, and the Woman Who Risked Everything to Keep Them Safe

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2011

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon tells the true story of Kamila Sidiqi, a young Afghan woman who, under the oppressive Taliban regime, risks her safety to become a successful fashion entrepreneur and support her family by teaching other women tailoring skills. Readers may encounter descriptions of the harsh treatment of women under the Taliban.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon beautifully captures resilience amid adversity, highlighting the courage of Afghan women during Taliban rule. Praised for its inspiring narrative and detailed portrayal, it is sometimes critiqued for oversimplifying complex issues. Overall, it is a compelling read that emphasizes hope and strength in the face of oppression.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Dressmaker of Khair Khana?

A reader who would enjoy The Dressmaker of Khair Khana by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon appreciates inspiring true stories of resilience and entrepreneurship, particularly those set against challenging socio-political backdrops. Fans of A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn will find similar themes of female empowerment and perseverance.

Book Details
Pages

295

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Kabul, Afghanistan • 1990s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

1090L

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