Inside an Honor Killing: A Father and a Daughter Tell Their Story

Lene Wold's book "Inside an Honor Killing" offers a rare window into the world of honor killings, exploring the motivations and experiences of both the perpetrators and victims. She spent over five years in Jordan researching the issue, speaking with killers and victims, and weaving a shocking tale from both perspectives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Greystone Books,Canada

A profound and harrowing exploration of the world of honor killings, shedding light on the motivations and experiences of both the perpetrators and the victims. This powerful and eye-opening book delves into the controversial practice of honor killings, in which over five thousand women are brutally murdered each year by close relatives in an attempt to restore their family's reputation. Writer and journalist Lene Wold spent over five years conducting extensive research in Jordan, visiting prisons, mosques, reviewing newspapers, and judicial archives, as well as interviewing imams, village elders, and other locals to gain a deeper understanding of these violent acts.

However, Wold's investigation went beyond mere observation; she also had the opportunity to speak with the killers themselves, including a man who perpetrated a triple honor killing, murdering his mother, daughter, and attempted to kill his other daughter. Through her compelling storytelling, Wold offers a rare and intimate perspective on honor killings, revealing the complex web of cultural, social, and religious factors that drive these acts.

One of the most striking aspects of Inside an Honor Killing is the way Wold weaves together the perspectives of the perpetrators and the victims. She provides a shocking tale of honor killing told from the perpetrators' perspective, offering insight into their motivations and rationalizations for their actions. At the same time, she also shares the devastating experiences of the victims, who are often subjected to unimaginable cruelty and violence, simply because they are perceived to have brought dishonor to their family.

Wold's research reveals that honor killings are not isolated incidents but rather a deeply ingrained cultural practice that is deeply rooted in patriarchal values and gender inequality. Women in many societies are considered property of their families, and their worth is often determined by their ability to preserve their family's reputation. In this context, honor killings are seen as a means of protecting the family's honor and reputation, even at the cost of the lives of the women involved.

However, Wold's book also highlights the resilience and strength of the victims of honor killings. Despite the overwhelming odds against them, many women are able to escape their abusive families and seek refuge in safe houses or other support networks. They are often supported by organizations that work to combat honor killings and promote gender equality, and they use their experiences to raise awareness about the issue and advocate for change.

Inside an Honor Killing is a powerful and important book that sheds light on a dark and complex issue. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the roots of gender inequality, cultural practices, and the devastating consequences of violence against women. By providing a rare and intimate perspective on honor killings, Wold challenges us to confront the underlying beliefs and attitudes that perpetuate these practices and work towards a world in which all women are valued and protected, regardless of their family's reputation.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 213 x 153 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771644372