Jeegareh Ma

by Rahela Nayebzadah

Based on a true story, Jeegareh Ma is a testament to the power of love in the face of struggle and hardship. Ghulam and Firishta, a wealthy couple, move to Kabul, Afghanistan, to begin a new chapter in their lives. Firishta is diagnosed with meningitis and passes away, leaving their six young children motherless. Moving back to Herat, Ghulam and his family discover that their motherland is no longer the the Soviet Union has invaded, causing them to seek refuge in Iran. In Iran, Ali, an impoverished, dark-skinned, and plumpish man asks for Maryam's hand in marriage. As Afghans living in Iran, Ali and his family are denied identity, worth, and value. Ali's prayers are answered when he and his family are accepted by Canada as refugees. Jeegareh Ma is a story of courage where love, family, and God are put to the test.

Genres: Middle East, Islam

159 pages, Paperback

First published October 4, 2012

Reviews

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I brought this book with me on a bus ride to Seattle, and while I usually end up falling asleep while reading in transit, I was completely immersed in the story and the characters and their intense emotional journeys. The author-narrator inserts herself with a unique and personable voice - I felt as if I was she was telling me this story in person, raw and unfiltered. The story itself, covering the move of Rahela's family from Afghanistan and Iran, to Pakistan, then Canada, eventually ends in tragedy, but also brings to light the precious bond of family. What I believe the author does best is not only develop an authentic voice, but also develops her characters with great detail and attention. Following each chapter I found myself falling more in love with them, especially with the free-spirited and mischievous Rahela. I also learned a lot about Afghani culture, and appreciated the author's efforts to help me understand life in other countries. All in all, I am so glad I was able to read Rahela's story and look forward to her next book. Definitely a must-read!

[Ezzat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. As a woman from Afghanistan, I can relate to the struggles the characters have faced. This is a very touching story about an Afghan family and I am so glad to have read this work!

[Mike Bull · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is an autobiographical novel about three generations of an Afghan family who begin upper class in Herat but slip into poverty and move to Iran, Pakistan, India and Canada constantly seeking a better life. Ultimately succumbing to a family tragedy, the book highlights a range of realities and emotions for family members throughout the years.

Although the narrative is disjointed in places and the writing is that of a beginning author, the passion and emotion of family life and circumstances come through.

I learned more about Afghan culture, food, traditions and realities in this book, which was very insightful, as well as understanding how tragedies and circumstances often turn families' lives upside down.

[Sarah Safdari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading the book prior to my exam so half way I had to pause to study. I finished the other half in 2 hours. I couldn't put it down. First of all, I want to to say that you are amazing and I loved your book. You have put everything in words so beautifully that I pictured everything as I was reading your book. I laughed out loud reading certain areas of the book. My mom walked in my room thinking I had gone mad. It was really heart breaking reading Chapter 11: Central Park. I could not control myself from crying and sobbing. It broke my heart. Amazing job on your book. Wishing you great success and looking forwards to your next book.

[Mohammad · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a father reading about another father's struggle to fight for his family, I can say that I can completely relate to the father and the other characters in the book. The book is about the power of family and love. This is an immigrant story that shares the story of many immigrants. It is an important read. Powerful and beautifully written. I recommend it to immigrants and non-immigrants.

[Rlopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parts of this novel made me cry, smile and/or burst out in laughter. This is one of the best novels I have ever read. It talks about a family living in Canada while maintaining their original culture and adopting new Canadian cultures. The author paints a vivid picture of the characters- their personalities shining through each word. I highly recommend this one- a good read for all ages.

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much is packed in a 159 pages. I can hear the author's voice and the emotions of each character are strongly heard as well. Character development was also well done. This book is rich in Afghan culture and customs, which does not occur too often when reading books about the people of Afghanistan. I learned a lot about their customs, values, and beliefs. Learning about such things brings the world closer and allows us to understand one another. I especially enjoyed the final chapter that was written by the author about her struggles and the journey she went through when writing her text. I highly recommend this text and I cannot wait for the author's next work.

[Hassan · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book, I'm going to have to say this was probably the most interesting novels I've read in a long time. I especially admired how the author chose the setting to be in Afghanistan, which were not use to see in most novels. Although it was a sad story and it was unfortunate how Firishta is diagnosed with meningitis and then passes away, I did appreciate how there was some mention of the Islamic culture and learning a bit about Afghan culture. I won't reveal what happens at the end but, i'd leave it to you guys to read it!!

[Rubyna Jinnah · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading this book as the notion of the book excited me. What a disappointment!! Poorly written, chaotic, no character development - this book was a mish mash of words on pages. I found grammatical errors and spelling mistakes throughout this book. Where was the editor? I am surprised the author found a publisher. What a waste of time.

[Aaron L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an easy read. I finished the whole thing in a 2 hour sitting. I enjoyed how each life event was divided with each chapter- yet the author was able to outline a family's life liine throughout the generations. This is a heartfelt story of a family who survived with perseverance and love for one another.

[Shara · Rating 4 out of 5]

An account of how the author’s family has overcame many struggles and how they came together during tragic times. As you make your way through the book it is hard not to feel an array of emotions from the descriptive way the author tells her family’s story. If you enjoy reading memoirs then give this one a shot!

[Sandy Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely one of my favourite books! Once I started reading it, I couldn't put the book down. The author did such a great job conveying the character's emotional journey. Very well written and highly recommended to others.

[Reza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was an excellent read it was difficult to put down. Beautifully written about a families struggle and their journey to Canada. Thinking that life in Canada will be good until the family faces another crisis that changes everything.

[Massoumeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. Very touching and inspiring. Can't wait to see what other readers think

[Rabia · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great read. Loved every minute of it.

[Botao Wu · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's just a great book about the writer's childhood experience. I cannot help expecting for the later things happened. Don't hesitate, bud, just buy it. or borrow it from the library!

[Vanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Truly touching and heartwarming. A must read to all readers!