The Underground Girls of Kabul
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014
384
Book • Nonfiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg explores the lives of bacha posh, Afghan girls who are disguised and accepted as boys to provide their families with societal advantages, such as security or increased status. Told through personal stories, the book delves into the complexities and pressures these individuals face, as well as the practice's roots in cultural and religious traditions. Topics include marital coercion and gender identity.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Contemplative
Emotional
15,174 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg is praised for its insightful and investigative portrayal of Afghan girls living as boys to escape societal restrictions. Reviewers commend its engaging narrative and extensive research but note that it can be dense with historical context. Overall, it offers a compelling and enlightening look into gender roles in Afghanistan.
A reader who would enjoy The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg is likely interested in women's rights, socio-cultural studies, and Afghan history. Fans of Malala Yousafzai's I Am Malala or Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns will find this book compelling for its courageous exploration of gender identity under oppressive regimes.
15,174 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
384
Book • Nonfiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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