Though there were moments of beauty, Mariam knew for the most part that life had been unkind to her.

A great deal remains to be done in Afghanistan and the jury is out as to whether the international community has the commitment and the patience to see the rebuilding process through.

If my book generates any sort of dialogue among Afghans, then I think it will have done a service to the community.

In Kabul, hot running water had been like fathers, a rare commodity.

Usually in films, when Muslims pray, it's either before or after they've blown something up.

He stopped, turned. He cupped his hands around his mouth. ''For you a thousand times over!'' he said. Then he smiled his Hassan smile and disappeared around the corner.

There will be no floating waway. There will be no other reality tonight.