The Dream Seller: Bakhshinda Roya
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If the world were a fair and just place no child would have to go through what Murtaza Ahmadi did. But the world is not fair or just, and Murtaza has much to say about what he witnessed and endured as the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan in the 1990s. The Dream Seller, the title of this memoir, is the nickname given to the author by his family because of his optimistic, encouraging words during that dark and dangerous time. It is fitting to publish this memoir now as the Taliban threatens to rise to power once again. It has been my privilege and honor to have a small part in helping Murtaza tell his story. My hope is that whoever reads this will see the historical importance of this story and also be reminded that even turbulent historical moments are made up mostly of ordinary people trying to continue with their lives the best way they can. It is my goal when editing to keep the writer’s voice intact even after the English grammar and spelling have been adjusted for clarity. Murtaza has a storyteller’s ear for how best to relate what happened and I tried hard not to alter that. He’s not prone to exaggeration or hyperbole. He simply tells his story by laying out events and conversations, creating pictures with his descriptions and details. He writes about what it was like to hide in a bunker during an attack, how dangerous it was at times to be outside and most of all how children were particularly vulnerable during this horrible time. In many ways, however, Murtaza’s memoir is a story of hope. It shines a light on the perseverance and heart of the people of Afghanistan through the example of one loving, extended family. Murtaza was blessed with a mother and father who loved each other and their children. They did all they could to keep their children safe while still allowing them to learn and grow. This book shows us moments of joy within the family brought about because of their inherent generosity, kindness and love towards one another and their neighbors. Murtaza is adept at showing the humanity of Afghans throughout his memoir with many examples that remind us that even in the midst of civil war, goodness can flourish.
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About the Book
This book delves into the life journey of a child, who had an exquisite life with a kind family and in a delightful environment. The child had a house in which different animals lived, different types of fruit trees and vegetable were planted. All the children who used to live by his house have been coming near by the river and have been playing different childish games with each other. They used to touch the beauty of life every day. Life was simple but very lovely and peaceful, but unexpectedly the colorful life and happiness did not stay with him forever; the horrible and dark wave of life turned every beautiful moment into an ugly and cold moment. That was the beginning of the civil war in a country that has been like an innocent deer was hunted by numerous wild wolves in capes of political parties. There was not only the government to rule but several parties have been trying to devastate the country. To this end, the child was forced to refuge and experience much more hardships.