Review of Secrets of the Kashmir Valley
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Review of Secrets of the Kashmir Valley
Secrets of the Kashmir Valley by Farhana Qazi is a non-fiction book. The author is an acclaimed speaker, researcher, and scholar who has majored in conflicts within the Muslim world. She was born in northern Pakistan and later brought up in Texas, USA. She’s an advisor to governments, a university tutor, and a researcher on topics such as conflict resolution and women in conflict. She’s a graduate of political science. This expertise and exposure are clearly evident as one reads this well-researched book. The book amplifies the role of women in the Kashmir conflict.
The book starts by offering a rich, multifaceted description of Kashmir through historical references, social political commentary, personal anecdotes, and historical quotes that highlight its breathtaking beauty. The author’s initial beautiful perception of the place changed upon visiting and interacting with the residents, leading to her realization of the harsh reality and complexity of the region. The book depicts Kashmir as having a rich religious and cultural history. Its people are accommodating despite the many years of conflict. The author has also shared her personal family history, including that of her mother and grandmother, thus adding a personal connection to the history of the region.
As I read the author's description of the place as both the valley of death and ‘Paradise on Earth.’ and a land of magic and myth, I was eager to continue reading further, but as I read further, the beauty and rich history were replaced by the pain and suffering of the Kashmir people, more specifically the women, and the complexity and sensitivity of the conflict situation.
The author has taken us through the six decades Kashmir has been in conflict and how the conflict has changed over the years. The book focuses on how the conflict has affected Kashmir’s people, specifically the women. This book aims to amplify the stories of Kashmiri women, bringing them out as key figures in the struggle for freedom and justice. The book has documented their experiences and contributions through personal accounts of their experiences during the conflict. The book calls for action to address the human suffering and find a lasting solution in Kashmir.
The book combines powerful, raw, and sensitive narration brought out through brilliant storytelling. The book is aesthetically written, and I didn’t find any errors in it. I am completely captivated by this book; every aspect appeals to me.
I commend the editor too, because the book is exceptionally edited. This book, in my opinion, deserves 5 stars out of 5. I recommend this book to anyone willing to understand the conflict situation in Kashmir and the impacts of conflict on women.
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Secrets of the Kashmir Valley
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