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The Daughter of Kurdland: A Life Dedicated to Humankind
WINNER of the PACEM IN TERRIS PEACE AND FREEDOM AWARD
The Kurdish activist who became a global icon
A powerful portrayal of a little school girl who defies Saddam Hussein's regime, survives Anfal Genocide and goes on to become an award-winning champion for human rights.
By combining crisp prose with utterly enthralling storytelling, Widad pulls back the curtain to reveal in vivid detail and with unflinching honesty the experiences that have shaped her — from her childhood in Kurdistan region where she was doomed to persecution, to her years as a university student undertaking the grueling task of chronicling crimes against humanity when she was just 17 years old, to her phenomenal resilience in exile. The Daughter of Kurdland takes the reader on an intimate journey to uncover deep truths that are valid in any age but especially so in our present context. Sparkling with wit and wisdom, this book poses universal questions: Should we always do what others tell us to do? How important is it to defy norms? How much of ourselves should we be willing to compromise for the sake of others? And how much should we be prepared to pay?
A profile in courage, Widad is today an international icon for peace and women empowerment, and is the youngest winner of the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, ranked among world-renowned figures like John F. Kennedy, Mother Teresa, Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama. A testament to the power of human endurance, The Daughter of Kurdland will inspire and surprise men and women alike.
The Kurdish activist who became a global icon
A powerful portrayal of a little school girl who defies Saddam Hussein's regime, survives Anfal Genocide and goes on to become an award-winning champion for human rights.
By combining crisp prose with utterly enthralling storytelling, Widad pulls back the curtain to reveal in vivid detail and with unflinching honesty the experiences that have shaped her — from her childhood in Kurdistan region where she was doomed to persecution, to her years as a university student undertaking the grueling task of chronicling crimes against humanity when she was just 17 years old, to her phenomenal resilience in exile. The Daughter of Kurdland takes the reader on an intimate journey to uncover deep truths that are valid in any age but especially so in our present context. Sparkling with wit and wisdom, this book poses universal questions: Should we always do what others tell us to do? How important is it to defy norms? How much of ourselves should we be willing to compromise for the sake of others? And how much should we be prepared to pay?
A profile in courage, Widad is today an international icon for peace and women empowerment, and is the youngest winner of the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, ranked among world-renowned figures like John F. Kennedy, Mother Teresa, Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama. A testament to the power of human endurance, The Daughter of Kurdland will inspire and surprise men and women alike.
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First published March 28, 2018
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About the author
Widad Akreyi
38 books174 followersMultiple award-winner Widad Akreyi has authored several books.
Her series, “THE VIKING’S KURDISH LOVE,” offers a fresh perspective on our shared history through an original story. Her memoir, “THE DAUGHTER OF KURDLAND,” weaves together personal and political events that have shaped her life, shedding light on the essence of human identity. “ANATOMY OF COVID CALAMITY” combines cutting-edge pandemic research with critical reflection, providing insightful analysis of the global response to COVID-19.
Widad’s accolades include the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, the International Woman Harmony Award, the Davenport Mayor Medal, the International Pfeffer Peace Award, and the Prize for bridging cultural gaps.
Born Kurdish, her heart finds solace in diverse Western cities scattered across vast continents.
In a special gesture, Widad has donated her manuscripts to charity, forgoing royalties from any published books. All proceeds from the sale of her books are dedicated to charitable causes.
You can reach her:
http://www.widad.org
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/author/widadakreyi
https://twitter.com/DrWidad_A
https://www.facebook.com/DrWidadAkreyi/
Her series, “THE VIKING’S KURDISH LOVE,” offers a fresh perspective on our shared history through an original story. Her memoir, “THE DAUGHTER OF KURDLAND,” weaves together personal and political events that have shaped her life, shedding light on the essence of human identity. “ANATOMY OF COVID CALAMITY” combines cutting-edge pandemic research with critical reflection, providing insightful analysis of the global response to COVID-19.
Widad’s accolades include the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, the International Woman Harmony Award, the Davenport Mayor Medal, the International Pfeffer Peace Award, and the Prize for bridging cultural gaps.
Born Kurdish, her heart finds solace in diverse Western cities scattered across vast continents.
In a special gesture, Widad has donated her manuscripts to charity, forgoing royalties from any published books. All proceeds from the sale of her books are dedicated to charitable causes.
You can reach her:
http://www.widad.org
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/author/widadakreyi
https://twitter.com/DrWidad_A
https://www.facebook.com/DrWidadAkreyi/
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 26, 2023
This was a very inspiring and interesting book. It is a biography of a remarkable woman, from Iraqi Kurdland, who has devoted her life to human rights issues. She was a child when Saddam Hussein came to power, and watched as her country and community were bit by bit discriminated against and ground down, then explosively (literally!) destroyed:
She found solace in reading and learning, but even as a young girl stood up for the oppressed – of whatever ethnicity or religion – and refused point blank to join the Baathist party, as all were required to do. I could never have done what she did at such a young age. Like the author, I loved books and learning, and sought it at every opportunity. I did not lack for courage, BUT I had an implicit belief in the government doing what was right for the country as a whole, even if a few individuals felt hard done by. And I worshipped science. If anyone had wanted me to do something, they just had to dress in a lab coat, and state that it was for the good of expanding scientific knowledge – I would have done as asked, with no consideration of the ethical issues or repercussions. I had read extensively about Nazi Germany, and studied Apartheid South Africa at school, and knew intellectually that not all governments were good – but MY government could not be like that. At what point does one realise that their basic human rights have been taken away, and they live in an evil dictatorship? When does it become too late to protest and do something? Can you be a good person and just keep your head down and hope for better days?
Thankfully, I lived (live) in a free democratic, egalitarian society, and never had to decide. And also thankfully, Widad Akreyi stood up against aggression, discrimination, and annihilation of human rights and dignity – despite the ever-increasing dangers to herself. She was able to start this as a child because of the support of her family:
Later, it was the support of her friends at university that was important, in particular Kevi. When Kevi was imprisoned, tortured and broken – then died – it seemed that something in Widad died too. Though Kevi’s spirit remained with Widad for the rest of her life, offering advice and solace when needed.
I learnt so much about Kurdistan reading this book. I did know beforehand that the Kurds are the largest ethnic group that does not have a country of their own, and that they are oppressed in Turkey, had sought independence in the aftermath of the toppling of Saddam Hussein, and had fought bravely against ISIS for the American allies, then been abandoned. But I had no idea of their history and culture (one of the oldest in the world), that women were respected and had leading roles, their language (similar to Farsi and not Arabic), nor what their land was like. I’d sort of imagined desolate, mountainous, arid … but that was after Saddam Hussein had bombed and poisoned it, and after his genocide against the Kurds, all but obliterating their communities and culture. The land that Widad remembers from her childhood was beautiful, full of growing plants, culture, books … all the more tragic to hear of it systematically destroyed. New of Saddam Hussein’s use of chemical weapons against his own people had reached UK news, but I didn’t know who had been killed – nor how long this went on for (4 -5 years). I did not support the war to topple Saddam Hussein – but now I wonder if there would have been anything left of the Kurds if he’d been left alone.
I wish that all the selfish people who want to ban asylum seekers from our shores could read about Widad’s struggles, and her horrendous flight from certain torture and death in Iraq to hoped-for safety in Western Europe. How can you even think or a moment that she and others from devastated countries do not deserve the chance to live.
This is an eye-opening book. Not a ‘nice’ read, but a very important one. It shows how much we don’t know about large parts of the world, that we (in the West) seem determined to interfere with. And also, the heroism of extraordinary people such as Widad, her family and friends.
I leave you with a final quote from Widad:
“Like all Kurds in Kurdland, I lived in a society where discriminatory practices were the norm, and where it was a crime to be a Kurd. Having independent opinions doubled that crime, and if you were also a woman it tripled that crime.”
She found solace in reading and learning, but even as a young girl stood up for the oppressed – of whatever ethnicity or religion – and refused point blank to join the Baathist party, as all were required to do. I could never have done what she did at such a young age. Like the author, I loved books and learning, and sought it at every opportunity. I did not lack for courage, BUT I had an implicit belief in the government doing what was right for the country as a whole, even if a few individuals felt hard done by. And I worshipped science. If anyone had wanted me to do something, they just had to dress in a lab coat, and state that it was for the good of expanding scientific knowledge – I would have done as asked, with no consideration of the ethical issues or repercussions. I had read extensively about Nazi Germany, and studied Apartheid South Africa at school, and knew intellectually that not all governments were good – but MY government could not be like that. At what point does one realise that their basic human rights have been taken away, and they live in an evil dictatorship? When does it become too late to protest and do something? Can you be a good person and just keep your head down and hope for better days?
Thankfully, I lived (live) in a free democratic, egalitarian society, and never had to decide. And also thankfully, Widad Akreyi stood up against aggression, discrimination, and annihilation of human rights and dignity – despite the ever-increasing dangers to herself. She was able to start this as a child because of the support of her family:
“My feeling of safety at home means that I can oppose, and my loyalty to my fellow people means that I do oppose …”
Later, it was the support of her friends at university that was important, in particular Kevi. When Kevi was imprisoned, tortured and broken – then died – it seemed that something in Widad died too. Though Kevi’s spirit remained with Widad for the rest of her life, offering advice and solace when needed.
I learnt so much about Kurdistan reading this book. I did know beforehand that the Kurds are the largest ethnic group that does not have a country of their own, and that they are oppressed in Turkey, had sought independence in the aftermath of the toppling of Saddam Hussein, and had fought bravely against ISIS for the American allies, then been abandoned. But I had no idea of their history and culture (one of the oldest in the world), that women were respected and had leading roles, their language (similar to Farsi and not Arabic), nor what their land was like. I’d sort of imagined desolate, mountainous, arid … but that was after Saddam Hussein had bombed and poisoned it, and after his genocide against the Kurds, all but obliterating their communities and culture. The land that Widad remembers from her childhood was beautiful, full of growing plants, culture, books … all the more tragic to hear of it systematically destroyed. New of Saddam Hussein’s use of chemical weapons against his own people had reached UK news, but I didn’t know who had been killed – nor how long this went on for (4 -5 years). I did not support the war to topple Saddam Hussein – but now I wonder if there would have been anything left of the Kurds if he’d been left alone.
I wish that all the selfish people who want to ban asylum seekers from our shores could read about Widad’s struggles, and her horrendous flight from certain torture and death in Iraq to hoped-for safety in Western Europe. How can you even think or a moment that she and others from devastated countries do not deserve the chance to live.
This is an eye-opening book. Not a ‘nice’ read, but a very important one. It shows how much we don’t know about large parts of the world, that we (in the West) seem determined to interfere with. And also, the heroism of extraordinary people such as Widad, her family and friends.
I leave you with a final quote from Widad:
“Dream big! Trust your instincts. Believe in yourself. Keep your heart open, and your spirit strong. But most importantly, serve your local and global community. Defend rights, if necessary. Embrace humanity joyfully, and live in harmony.”
October 21, 2019
Where to start... I could say so much about this book! This one was special to me, as in recent years the Kurdish struggle has become very close to my heart. I've been interested in the Middle East from a young age. I've never really known why this is, it just is. I knew a little about the Kurds as a teenager, but not enough. I would come to know more about them when I began reading up on what has been going on in Syria. That was what started it. It wasn't long and these people captured my heart!
They are largely de vided between 4 states, Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. She also mentions in this book that Azerbaijan has some of a Kurdish population there as well. Which I was not aware of. We are always learning...
In the states the Kurds have been forced to live in, they are not even allowed to speak their own language! She talks of Genocide committed against them in Iraq, I don't want to say too much here, to know you'll have to read the book, but the Genocides committed against the Kurds in Iraq are not the only ones. In Syria they are now under such a situation at the hands of Turkey, while the world has done very little to stop it!
They have been good allies to the US and western nations, and been stabbed in the back over and over again. Even with that being the case, they still have worked with us again and again. They were the ones that lost some of the most helping us fight the Islamic State, or IS.
There is so much I could say here, but this is a review, so I have to limit it. However, if you want to know more about these people, this is such a good educational read! I would totally recommend it.
Before I close this review, I just want to say that I love Widad's spirit! She has been through so much, things I can't begin to imagine! And she still has so much love in her, she still fights for the rights of peoples all around the world! I've learned a lot reading this book! Thanks Widad for writing this book. I know it had to be hard to do so! But the world needs to know. I wish many people would read this book!
They are largely de vided between 4 states, Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. She also mentions in this book that Azerbaijan has some of a Kurdish population there as well. Which I was not aware of. We are always learning...
In the states the Kurds have been forced to live in, they are not even allowed to speak their own language! She talks of Genocide committed against them in Iraq, I don't want to say too much here, to know you'll have to read the book, but the Genocides committed against the Kurds in Iraq are not the only ones. In Syria they are now under such a situation at the hands of Turkey, while the world has done very little to stop it!
They have been good allies to the US and western nations, and been stabbed in the back over and over again. Even with that being the case, they still have worked with us again and again. They were the ones that lost some of the most helping us fight the Islamic State, or IS.
There is so much I could say here, but this is a review, so I have to limit it. However, if you want to know more about these people, this is such a good educational read! I would totally recommend it.
Before I close this review, I just want to say that I love Widad's spirit! She has been through so much, things I can't begin to imagine! And she still has so much love in her, she still fights for the rights of peoples all around the world! I've learned a lot reading this book! Thanks Widad for writing this book. I know it had to be hard to do so! But the world needs to know. I wish many people would read this book!
March 4, 2025
An uplifting and an eye-opening memoir
The author has written a rich memoir that will inspire and build confidence in readers. I thank her for allowing us to read her story in her own words. I know it takes guts of steel to write a memoir. It is hard to put yourself out there to other people. This is the closest any of us can get to realise the hardships Widad has experienced. She came out on the other side with her spirit and love for humanity intact. This book will cement Dr. Widad Akreyi's unparalleled legacy.
If you are looking for a mindset shift, or simply want to look at your life with a new perspective, then look no further. This memoir is the book you should read.
The author has written a rich memoir that will inspire and build confidence in readers. I thank her for allowing us to read her story in her own words. I know it takes guts of steel to write a memoir. It is hard to put yourself out there to other people. This is the closest any of us can get to realise the hardships Widad has experienced. She came out on the other side with her spirit and love for humanity intact. This book will cement Dr. Widad Akreyi's unparalleled legacy.
If you are looking for a mindset shift, or simply want to look at your life with a new perspective, then look no further. This memoir is the book you should read.
March 4, 2025
The Daughter of Kurdland is a fascinating memoir, a poetic, philosophical work written in a style lucid and engaging. It is an honest account of Dr. Widad Akreyi's journey, packed with messages of hope, wisdom, passion and courage that will empower you to navigate life's twists and turns to reach your highest potential.
Highly recommended, both for the quality of her prose and for the inspiring story of her life.
Highly recommended, both for the quality of her prose and for the inspiring story of her life.
March 4, 2025
A must-read book in which Widad asks the right questions to place her personal reflections in a wider context of the conflicts and challenges of the modern world.
March 4, 2025
Published in 2019, The Daughter of Kurdland: A Life Dedicated to Humankind is an inspiring story of personal power. It is the autobiography of Dr. Widad Akreyi, an award-winning pioneer in the fields of social justice and peace. In this book, Widad talks about her roots and how a school girl from the city of Akrê stood up for human rights in a country controlled by a totalitarian regime. That little girl grew into becoming an epidemiologist and an internationally recognised courageous leader.
The book consists of 10 chapters, a prologue and a postscript.
The prologue is set in a western country. It starts with Widad on the verge of losing consciousness. The three first chapters offers insights into Widad’s early life in Kurdistan region, growing up with her parents and siblings, through her education, a new war and more oppression.
Chapters 4, 5 and 6 trace her University years in Erbil to her early activism and documentation of the Anfal Genocide.
Chapters 7 and 8 recounts the uprising in Kurdistan region, its aftermath, Widad’s volunteerism, her career as a civil engineer, human rights leader and educator at schools and high schools, as well as her journey fleeing Iraq.
Chapter 9 focuses largely on her new life in exile, while the last chapter shares her hard-won wisdom on how anyone can be his or her best self.
Her journey will inspire you to overcome life's hardships.
The book consists of 10 chapters, a prologue and a postscript.
The prologue is set in a western country. It starts with Widad on the verge of losing consciousness. The three first chapters offers insights into Widad’s early life in Kurdistan region, growing up with her parents and siblings, through her education, a new war and more oppression.
Chapters 4, 5 and 6 trace her University years in Erbil to her early activism and documentation of the Anfal Genocide.
Chapters 7 and 8 recounts the uprising in Kurdistan region, its aftermath, Widad’s volunteerism, her career as a civil engineer, human rights leader and educator at schools and high schools, as well as her journey fleeing Iraq.
Chapter 9 focuses largely on her new life in exile, while the last chapter shares her hard-won wisdom on how anyone can be his or her best self.
Her journey will inspire you to overcome life's hardships.
January 10, 2023
AMAZING! This series is so so interesting! The life of an amazing woman, 1000 years ago, but so similar to what is still happening today in the middle east. This is a great book I just couldnt stop thinking about when I wasnt reading it! I told everyone their story, and it deserves to be spread through time. Great great read. Historical fiction based on the authors ancestry. Just lovely.
Want to read
February 9, 2022Iraq
Want to read
November 9, 2022This author Is Absolutely Amazing.
April 16, 2021
This book is extraordinary exelent
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews