"Manoori's autobiographical account is a wonderfully rich introduction to an uncommon (but by no means rare) Afghan tradition in which families choose to raise as a young daughter as a son. Her story upends the easy stereotypes we so readily apply to rural Afghans and their values." Thomas Barfield, author of Afghanistan: A Cultural and Political History
"A beautiful, fascinating tale about a little-known tradition that provides a snapshot of Pashtun village life in Afghanistan. Ukmina’s honest storytelling is enthralling and she is a source of strength for women the world over."Laura Kasinof, author of Don’t Be Afraid of the Bullets and former New York Times correspondent in Yemen