Inspiring books that strengthen our commitment to supporting refugees
by: Julia Aitken, Program Director
As summer fades and autumn's crisp embrace, a sense of reflection and renewal begins. During my summer vacation, I found inspiration through two profoundly moving novels, The Swallows of Kabul and The Beekeeper of Aleppo. These compelling narratives offer poignant glimpses into the courage and resilience of those forced to flee their homes, instilling a renewed sense of hope and motivation in me.
As a dedicated member of the Aman Lara team, these books have deepened my commitment to our mission of providing safety and building sustainable futures for at-risk individuals.
With this newfound inspiration, I’ve curated a list of impactful novels to help others better understand the refugee experience, which is central to our daily work at Aman Lara. This understanding is crucial in fostering empathy and support for those in need.
Books highlighting women’s struggles in Afghanistan
These powerful accounts center on women's resilience and perseverance, and the struggle for equality and freedom takes center stage. Whether through personal stories or fictional narratives, these books illuminate the ongoing battle for gender equality in Afghanistan.
The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg
Have you ever heard about the bacha posh tradition in Afghanistan? In her gripping book, Jenny Nordberg delves into this practice where daughters are raised as boys to boost family status in a patriarchal society. Through intimate stories, Nordberg reveals bacha posh's profound personal and societal effects, strikingly exploring gender roles and cultural norms in Afghanistan.
The Favored Daughter by Fawzia Koofi
As the book’s protagonist, Fawzia Koofi narrates her life’s journey, from being abandoned at birth to becoming Afghanistan's first female Parliament speaker. Enduring family abuse, oppressive regimes, and personal loss, Koofi's story is one of resilience. As she recounts her impressive story, Fawzia weaves in letters to her daughters, projecting the freedoms she dreams of for all Afghan women.
The Pearl That Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi
This novel tells the parallel stories of two Afghan women separated by generations, who both navigate oppressive cultural norms. Their tales reflect the struggle for autonomy and survival under strict gender roles. The book poignantly highlights the connection between past and present struggles in Afghanistan, reflecting themes of displacement and societal constraints.
The Sewing Circles of Hera by Christina Lamb
A journalist's direct and gripping account of Afghanistan’s complex political landscape, capturing the struggles of both Taliban leaders and resistance fighters. The book highlights the bravery of underground efforts like the sewing circles that provided education to women. Lamb’s firsthand observations and reflections highlight the profound human drama and resilience amid Afghanistan’s turmoil.
We Are Displaced by Malala Yousafzai
Nobel Peace Prize laureate presents a poignant collection of stories from displaced women and girls who have fled conflict and persecution. Through these personal accounts, Yousafzai sheds light on their resilience, struggles, and unyielding hope for a better future despite their immense challenges. The book highlights the global refugee crisis and underscores the strength and determination of those displaced by war and violence.
The refugee experience: survival and resilience
As these stories of resilience unfold, the emotional impact of the refugee experience becomes palpable. The authors reflect on the emotional, physical, and psychological toll of fleeing one’s homeland, fostering a sense of connection and empathy among readers.
A Bed of Red Flowers: In Search of My Afghanistan by Nelofer Pazira
This book chronicles the author’s transformation from a privileged young girl in 1970s Afghanistan to a determined resistance fighter amidst the Soviet occupation of her country. As the conflict escalates, Nelofer’s journey takes her from fleeing her war-torn homeland to navigating the challenges of refugee life in Pakistan and Canada. Her quest to rescue a friend from the Taliban ultimately leads her to confront the legacy of the Soviet invasion of her homeland.
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri
This novel follows a Syrian couple fleeing the war in Aleppo and enduring a harrowing journey to Europe. Their emotional trauma and loss are captured through the husband's vivid memories of his beekeeping life. The book offers a moving exploration of the psychological toll of displacement.
Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai
Although focused on a young girl fleeing Vietnam, this novel resonates with the universal refugee experience of leaving one’s home behind. The story explores the emotional challenges of adapting to a new culture and language. It’s a moving portrayal of resilience and hope for a better future.
Fictional narratives of war and displacement
In addition to the real-life experiences of refugees, fictional narratives provide another layer of understanding. Through stories set against war and societal upheaval, these books reveal how conflict forces individuals to navigate profound loss, fear, and hope for a better future.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
This novel tells the story of two boys from different social classes in Afghanistan, exploring friendship, guilt, and redemption themes. While the primary focus is on male characters, it provides a deep understanding of Afghan society, including the struggles women and children face during conflict. The story highlights the impact of war and displacement on individuals and families.
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Set in Afghanistan, the novel follows the intertwining lives of two women over decades of war and oppression. Both must endure hardships under the Taliban regime but develop a bond that leads them to fight for survival and freedom. The story is a testament to Afghan women's resilience and unbreakable spirit.
The Swallows of Kabul by Yasmina Khadra
Set in Taliban-ruled Kabul, this novel focuses on two couples navigating life under the oppressive regime. The book delves into themes of love, loss, and survival against the backdrop of war. It offers a gripping exploration of the emotional and psychological toll of constant fear and displacement.
At Aman Lara, we see firsthand the remarkable strength and resilience of those we support; these stories reflect that same spirit. I hope delving into these impressive narratives will inspire you as much as they have inspired me to continue striving to help people from nations in crises.
