37 pages • 1 hour read
The Dressmaker of Khair Khana: Five Sisters, One Remarkable Family, and the Woman Who Risked Everything to Keep Them Safe
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Book Brief
The Dressmaker of Khair Khana
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2011295
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 1990s
2011
Adult
14+ years
1090L
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.
Inspirational
Hopeful
Emotional
Challenging
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
20,301 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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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 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.
20,301 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Malika Sidiqi
Malika Sidiqi
Kamila's older sister, a skilled seamstress with a more cautious and pragmatic approach. She prioritizes her family's immediate needs and often advises Kamila on the potential dangers of her actions.
Woja Abdul Sidiqi
Woja Abdul Sidiqi
Kamila's father, a retired soldier whose teachings and emphasis on education influence his daughters. His absence from Kabul creates a situation that allows Kamila to take on a leadership role within the family.
295
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 1990s
2011
Adult
14+ years
1090L
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