Stay, Daughter

In the 50s and 60s, being a Muslim girl in Sri Lanka meant staying inside, veiling oneself, and following tradition. Yasmin Azad's family is full of love, humor, and larger-than-life characters, but her father allows her an education that opens the world to her, despite the risk of closing her off from those she is closest to. This portrait of a time and community in the midst of profound change is one that will always be with us.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Swift Press

In the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lanka's 50s and 60s, the lives of Muslim girls were intricately woven with a unique set of traditions and customs. However, a subtle shift began to unfold, as young individuals like Yasmin Azad embarked on a journey of exploration and self-discovery. While their grandmothers and mothers had confined themselves to the boundaries of their homes, these young souls craved for a more expansive existence, yearning to venture beyond the familiar confines.

With a thirst for knowledge, they sought opportunities for education, envisioning a future that would unlock the doors to a world of possibilities. The elders, however, held steadfast beliefs, warning that too much education could jeopardize a girl's future, casting a shadow of doubt upon their aspirations. Undeterred, Yasmin Azad and her family embraced the transformative power of education, defying societal norms and breaking free from the chains of tradition.

Despite the strictures that half of them were under, their home was a sanctuary filled with love, humor, and larger-than-life characters. Yasmin's father, in particular, stood as a beacon of support, allowing her to pursue an education that would open the doors to a vast expanse of knowledge and opportunity. It was a decision that would shape her destiny and pave the way for a future filled with endless possibilities.

Stay, Daughter, an extraordinary portrait of a time and a community in the midst of profound change, vividly evokes a now-vanished world. Through the eyes of Yasmin Azad, the reader is transported to a realm where tradition and modernity clash, creating a captivating tapestry of human experiences. The book serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle between preserving cultural heritage and embracing the advancements of the modern world.

As we reflect on the past, we are compelled to confront the complexities of our own lives and the choices we make. Yasmin Azad's story reminds us of the power of education to break barriers, challenge norms, and empower individuals to pursue their dreams. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless potential that lies within us when we dare to defy the expectations of those around us.

In conclusion, Stay, Daughter is a captivating masterpiece that offers a profound exploration of the lives of Muslim girls in Sri Lanka during a period of immense transformation. Through Yasmin Azad's journey, we are reminded of the importance of embracing diversity, challenging tradition, and pursuing knowledge. The book serves as a valuable reminder that the clash between tradition and modernity is a timeless struggle, and that the human spirit has the capacity to transcend boundaries and shape a brighter future for generations to come.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 144 x 224 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800751392