The Underground Girls of Kabul: In Search of a Hidden Resistance in Afghanistan

by Jenny Nordberg
The Underground Girls of Kabul: In Search of a Hidden Resistance in Afghanistan cover
Good Books rating 4.62
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 4391
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
publishersweekly.com · Unknown · 2025-10-21
brilliant 4.50

The book explores the fantasy of time travel to prevent JFK's assassination, delving into the moral complexities and historical adjustments that result from such an intervention. The protagonist, Jake Epping, embarks on a mission to change the course of history, encountering both the nostalgic and darker aspects of 1958 America.

In _11.22.63_, Stephen King masterfully explores the timeless fantasy of altering history to prevent a tragic event. The protagonist, Jake Epping, is tasked with going back to 1958 to stop the assassination of President John F Kennedy. The novel delves into the moral dilemmas of time travel, questioning whether one has the right to change the past. Jake's journey is filled with nostalgia for the simpler times of the 1950s, but also confronts the harsh realities of racism and the pervasive culture of smoking. The book's strength lies in its intricate narrative structure, which keeps the reader engaged with the protagonist's trials and the historical adjustments that result from his actions. King's advanced understanding of storytelling ensures that the novel is not just a thrilling adventure but also a profound exploration of the consequences of meddling with time.

Quick quotes

    Going back in time proves a step forward for a master storyteller.

    The possibility of such an intervention must number, along with its darker twin of going back and killing Hitler, among the principal fantasies of time travel.

    The only sustained criticism of King, apart from the howls of some incurable literary snobs, has been his books' alternative use as weight-lifter's training aids.

allie-reads.com · Unknown · 2021-04-11
brilliant 5.00

The reviewer praises Stephen King's '11/22/63' as a masterful blend of time travel, historical fiction, and psychological suspense. They highlight King's ability to create compelling characters and vivid settings, making the book both engaging and thought-provoking. The reviewer also appreciates the book's exploration of the consequences of changing the past and the resilience of the past itself.

The reviewer is highly impressed with Stephen King's '11/22/63', noting that it defies the stereotype of King being just a horror writer. They appreciate the book's exploration of time travel and the historical events surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy. The reviewer finds the characters, particularly Jake Epping, to be well-developed and relatable, and the settings to be vividly described. They also praise King's ability to create a sense of suspense and doom throughout the book. The reviewer notes that the book is not just a thrilling adventure but also a thought-provoking exploration of the consequences of changing the past and the resilience of the past itself. They conclude that '11/22/63' is a masterpiece that deserves a 5-star rating.

Quick quotes

    The past is obdurate for the same reason a turtle’s shell is obdurate: because the living flesh inside is tender and defenseless.

    Even people capable of living in the past don't really know what the future holds.

    Is there any phrase more ominous than you need to see exactly what you’ve done? I couldn’t think of one offhand.

bookreporter.com · Unknown · 2015-07-14
powerful 4.50

The book provides a unique and eye-opening look into the lives of Afghan women, highlighting their resilience and the cultural practices that shape their existence. It's a powerful narrative that sheds light on the hidden resistance and the struggles of women in Afghanistan.

The Underground Girls of Kabul offers a compelling and deeply moving exploration of the lives of Afghan women. The author delves into the practice of bacha posh, where girls are raised as boys to bring honor to their families. This book is not just a story but a testament to the strength and resilience of women in a society that often marginalizes them. The narrative is both heartbreaking and inspiring, providing a window into a world that is often misunderstood. The book also highlights the hidden resistance and the various ways women navigate and challenge the oppressive structures around them. It's a powerful read that leaves a lasting impact, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Afghan culture and the struggles of women in such a society.

Quick quotes

    The book is a powerful narrative that sheds light on the hidden resistance and the struggles of women in Afghanistan.

    It's a compelling and deeply moving exploration of the lives of Afghan women.

    The narrative is both heartbreaking and inspiring, providing a window into a world that is often misunderstood.

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2014-01-01
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer found '11.22.63' to be a thrilling and thought-provoking novel, praising Stephen King's ability to weave historical facts into a compelling narrative. They were particularly moved by the characters and the emotional ending, which solidified their love for the book. Despite the length, they highly recommend it.

The reviewer was initially intimidated by Stephen King's work due to its length and their lack of familiarity with American history, but they found '11.22.63' to be a fantastic introduction to his storytelling. The novel's blend of historical facts and time-travel kept them engaged, and they appreciated how King portrayed life in the 50s and 60s. The characters, especially Jake and Sadie, were particularly compelling, and the emotional ending left a lasting impact. While the reviewer is unsure about tackling another lengthy King novel soon, they highly recommend '11.22.63' for its engaging narrative and thought-provoking themes.

Quick quotes

    FOR A MOMENT EVERYTHING WAS CLEAR, AND WHEN THAT HAPPENS YOU SEE THAT THE WORLD IS BARELY THERE AT ALL. DON’T WE ALL SECRETLY KNOW THIS? IT’S A PERFECTLY BALANCED MECHANISM OF SHOUTS AND ECHOES PRETENDING TO BE WHEELS AND COGS, A DREAM CLOCK CHIMING BENEATH A MYSTERY-GLASS WE CALL LIFE. BEHIND IT? BELOW IT AND AROUND IT? CHAOS, STORMS. MEN WITH HAMMERS, MEN WITH KNIVES, MEN WITH GUNS. WOMEN WHO TWIST WHAT THEY CANNOT DOMINATE AND BELITTLE WHAT THEY CANNOT UNDERSTAND. A UNIVERSE OF HORROR AND LOSS SURROUNDING A SINGLE LIGHTED STAGE WHERE MORTALS DANCE IN DEFIANCE OF THE DARK.

    Gosh, what a ride.

    I think it was that moment that definitely solidified my love for this novel and while I have yet to watch the Hulu series based on the book, I have seen a clip taken from Sadie and Jake’s dance at the ending and boy, did I bawl my eyes out!

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