This is probably one of the most profound books I have ever read. It breathes life into the endless news coverage of Afghanistan over the past decade. The horror and degradation suffered on all sides, the seeming hopelessness of finding a way back. I felt angry at the huge loss in every sense that this long conflict has inflicted on Afghanis, Soviets and the US and its allies. The mistakes made are so huge. It also gave me huge insight into the jihadi mind-set, and the terrible crime inflicted on these young untutored minds by their terrorist masters.
Alongside this, is a story of true beauty, of love, of courage amidst chaos. It is a fragrant whisper of the ancient beauty that was Afghanistan.
This is an important book, beautifully written, and well worth reading. It will change you.