My Pen Is the Wing of a Bird: New Fiction by Afghan Women

My Pen Is the Wing of a Bird is a powerful collection of short fiction by Afghan women writers,which was named Financial Times Fiction in Translation Book of the Year 2022. The book offers vivid snapshots of a country beset by war and violence,and highlights the resilience and determination of Afghan women in the face of adversity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

Powerful, profound, and deeply moving, new fiction by Afghan women writers will expand your mind and elevate your heart.




ELIF SHAFAK, winner of the 2022 Financial Times Fiction in Translation Book of the Year, has crafted an arresting collection of short stories. Written in simple, direct prose, these stories offer vivid snapshots of a country beset by war and violence. It is more important than ever to read the work of these courageous writers, as they shed light on the lives of Afghans and women in particular.




My Pen Is the Wing of a Bird is a monumental achievement, showcasing the talent and resilience of Afghan women writers. Eighteen writers come together in this anthology to share stories that are both unique and universal. From family and work to childhood and friendship, these stories explore a wide range of themes and emotions.


What sets this collection apart is its emphasis on the voices of Afghan women. These writers are informed and inspired by their own personal experiences, which allows them to bring powerful insights into the lives of Afghans and women. Women's lives, in their own words, matter, and this collection provides a platform for them to share their stories.


The introduction by Lyse Doucet further highlights the importance of this collection. Doucet notes that the stories in My Pen Is the Wing of a Bird remind us that everyone has a story, and that stories matter. The storytellers, too, are essential, and Afghan women writers are best placed to bring us these powerful insights into the lives of Afghans and women.


In conclusion, My Pen Is the Wing of a Bird is a precious collection of work that introduces extraordinary voices from the country's t. It is a testament to the talent and resilience of Afghan women writers, and it reminds us of the importance of listening to and valuing the stories of women from all walks of life. This collection is a must-read for anyone who seeks to expand their understanding of the world and the experiences of others.

Weight: 194g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529422214