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I Am a Bacha Posh

My Life as a Woman Living as a Man in Afghanistan
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( 1,406 ratings, 167 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
I Am a Bacha Posh by Ukmina Manoori is a compelling memoir that delves into the life of a girl in Afghanistan who is raised as a boy due to cultural traditions that discourage female independence. It provides a poignant insight into the bacha posh practice, highlighting the challenges and resilience required for Ukmina to traverse the boundaries of gender roles in a conservative society. This personal story reveals her journey toward self-discovery and the relentless pursuit of freedom and equality.
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Format: Hardback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you are interested in powerful personal stories that illuminate unique cultural practices. This memoir details the life of a girl who was raised as a boy under the Afghan tradition, providing a compelling look at gender identity and resilience in the face of societal pressures. It's a thought-provoking read that can enrich your understanding of Afghan culture and challenges traditional gender roles.

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"Previously published as Je suis une bacha posh in 2013 by aEditions Michel Lafon."

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

"You will be a son, my daughter." With these stunning words, Ukmina learned that she was to spend her childhood as a boy. In Afghanistan, there is a widespread practice of girls dressing as boys to play the role of a son. These children are called "bacha posh," literally "girls dressed as boys." This practice offers families the freedom to allow their child to shop and workβ€”and in some cases, it saves them from the disgrace of not having a male heir.

But in adolescence, religion restores the natural law. The girls must marry, give birth, and give up their freedom. Ukmina decided to confront social and family pressure and keep her menswear. This brave choice paved the way for an extraordinary destiny: she wages war against the Soviets, assists the mujaheddin, and ultimately commands the respect of all whom she encounters. She eventually becomes one of the elected council members of her province. But freedom always has a price. For "Ukmina warrior" that price was her life as a woman.

This is a stunning and brave memoir about a little-known practice that will challenge your perceptions about gender and the courage it takes to live your life to the fullest.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

I Am a Bacha Posh by Ukmina Manoori is praised for its rich introduction to a unique Afghan tradition where girls are raised as boys, which challenges common stereotypes about rural Afghan values. The autobiography is described as a fascinating narrative that offers insight into Pashtun village life, with Ukmina's honest storytelling providing inspiration and strength to women globally.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781629146812

Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 30 October 2014

Country: United States

Imprint: Skyhorse Publishing

Contributors:

  • With Stephanie Lebrun
  • Translated by Peter E. Chianchiano

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 229.0mm

Weight: 544g

Pages: 168

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