BOOK REVIEW: “Kabul Beauty School” by Deborah Rodriguez - The DV Walking Wounded
I didn’t have any pertinent financial resources to share today, so I thought I’d do a book review on a book that I was reading and JUST finished. My 2024 is going to be filled with reading books on female empowerment and domestic abuse resources!
***TRIGGER WARNING!*** This book does reference physical abuse against women.
Kabul Beauty School” by Deborah Rodriguez is like a burst of fresh air in my reading stack, blending poignant storytelling with a powerful message of resilience and female empowerment. Rodriguez takes readers on a captivating journey through the bustling streets of Kabul, where beauty isn’t just skin deep—it’s a lifeline for many women in a war-torn society — especially in a society where women are treated as property and the culture is very restrictive!
One of the most commendable aspects of the book is how it bravely tackles the issue of domestic abuse. Through the eyes of the author, who herself experienced abuse in her former relationship, we witness the struggles and triumphs of Afghan women who turn to the Kabul Beauty School not only for skills in cosmetology but also for a sense of independence and self-worth. Rodriguez delicately weaves these narratives into the fabric of the story, shining a light on the harsh realities faced by many women while also celebrating their strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
What makes “Kabul Beauty School” truly inspiring is its unwavering focus on empowering women. Despite the challenges and dangers they face, the women in Rodriguez’s book refuse to be silenced or side-lined. Instead, they come together to support one another, creating a community where solidarity and sisterhood flourish. Through education and entrepreneurship, they reclaim control over their lives and redefine the meaning of beauty on their own terms.
Rodriguez’s writing is both heartfelt and engaging, drawing readers into a world that is at once foreign and familiar. Her vivid descriptions and honest portrayal of the human spirit make “Kabul Beauty School” a captivating read from start to finish. It’s a testament to the resilience of women everywhere and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the possibility for positive change. I definitely could NOT put it down, although at times I had to in order to work or get things done around the house!
Deborah Rodriguez has written another book set in Kabul titled “The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul.” In this novel, Rodriguez explores the lives of a diverse group of characters who frequent a bustling coffee shop in Kabul, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of life in Afghanistan’s capital city. The story delves into themes of friendship, love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the backdrop of war and social upheaval. Like “Kabul Beauty School,” Rodriguez’s second novel provides a compelling and intimate portrayal of Afghan society while shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of its people. I cannot wait to read that one, when I get it through my library’s inter library loan! I will definitely review that book at a later date!
Love and light! <3
