About the Book
Sima Samar has spent her life fighting for equality and justice in Afghanistan. From providing healthcare to women in some of the country’s most remote regions – often at grave personal risk – to becoming Minister of Women’s Affairs and a thorn in the side of the Taliban, Samar has witnessed the political failures that have engulfed her country.
Born into a polygamous family and forced into an arranged marriage, Samar learned early the cost of being a Hazara woman in Afghanistan. After her husband was disappeared by the pro-Russian regime, she faced a defining choice: submit to injustice, or devote her life to resisting it. Despite decades of war, death threats and persecution, she has remained steadfast in her belief that justice and human rights are possible for all Afghans.
This powerful memoir offers a rare insider’s account of Afghanistan’s past, present and fragile future, told by one of its most courageous advocates.
About the Author
Sima Samar is a globally renowned women’s and human rights activist and doctor from Afghanistan. She established the Shuhada Organization that operated more than one hundred schools and dozens of hospitals and clinics in the country. Samar served as Minister of Women’s Affairs of Afghanistan and as Chair of the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission. She was also formerly a member of the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Internal Displacement. Her many honours include the Right Livelihood Award, the Profile in Courage Award and the Ms. Magazine Women of the Year Award. Samar is currently a visiting scholar at Tufts University’s Fletcher School in the United States where she is based.
Reviews
‘A mighty memoir … A book to break hearts but also bring hope. Sima Samar was the unflinching face of Afghans’ fight for human rights and justice. Her story is ours too, and it’s time it was told.’ Lyse Doucet
‘Samar is an inspiration for women the world over. Her powerful and moving memoir is a vital read. This inspiring story of resilience, courage and hope ignites a flame of hope for Afghanistan.’ Cherie Blair
‘An extraordinary, gripping and deeply moving book about the tragedy in Afghanistan.’ Ahmed Rashid
‘Sima Samar’s life and work stand in defiance to the dark rule of the Taliban, as a promise for a better future for all Afghans.’ Louise Arbour, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
'Illuminating and vital ... Samar's lifelong legacy of resistance and resilience is palpably present in this memorable self-portrait.' Kirkus Reviews
'Memoirs don't come much more inspirational than this.' Publishers Weekly
Awards
CG Moore Prize 2024 (Shortlisted)
