I See the Sun in Afghanistan (Dari-English)

Author: Dedie King
Illustrated by: Judith Inglese
Paperback: 40 page(s)
Age Range: 5 +

Book Description:

Through the eyes of a child, I See the Sun in Afghanistan portrays a culture that emphasizes patriarchal family, love of country and fierce loyalty to family and tribe. Although the story takes place against the backdrop of war, it is not political, but a simple story about one day in the life of a young girl. After waking before dawn, Habiba and her sister go out to fetch water. Following a breakfast of khojur, she tags along with her brother and father as they bring the sheep to pasture. She goes to school outside with other girls; the boys attend school later in the day. Her family is preparing for cousins and an aunt and uncle to move in with them and Habiba wonders how everyone will fit into their small home. A country overview and glossary is included for parents and teachers who want to go beyond the story and talk more about Afghanistan and why it is important. In English and Dari (Afghan Farsi).

Publisher's Weekly
Written in English and Dari (the official language of Afghanistan), this third book in the I See the Sun series provides a window into the life of an Afghan girl while touching on the effects of war. Habiba awakens before dawn to gather water from the well, attends school, and spends time with her family; but in the afternoon, Habiba's uncle (who has lost his legs), aunt, and cousins arrive--to stay. "I am happy to see my cousins," Habiba thinks, "but I am also worried. How can so many people live together in our small house?" Inglese's artwork is a haunting mixture of pencil drawings and photo-collage, and despite the story's uncertainties, the overall message is one of resilience.