Always Faithful: A Story of the War in Afghanistan, the Fall of Kabul, and the Unshakable Bond Between a Marine and an Interpreter

by Thomas Schueman, Zainullah Zaki

Band of Brothers  meets  Argo  in this dramatic and heartfelt dual memoir of the war in Afghanistan told by two men from opposite worlds.  Always Faithful  entwines the stories of Marine Major Tom Schueman, and his friend and Afghan interpreter, Zainullah “Zak” Zaki, as they describe their parallel lives, converging paths, and unbreakable bond in the face of overwhelming danger, culminating in Zak and his family’s harrowing escape from Kabul.  

In August of 2021, just days shy of the 20 th  anniversary of 9/11, America ended its longest war. The speed of the Afghanistan’s fall was so stunning that thousands of Afghan citizens who had helped American forces over the course of two decades—and had been promised visas in return—were suddenly stranded, in extreme, imminent danger. As the world watched the shocking scenes of desperation at the Kabul airport in the final two weeks of August, Maj. Tom Schueman fought—both behind the scenes and through a social media campaign—to get his friend and former Afghan interpreter, Zak, out of Afghanistan before he and his family were discovered by the Taliban. When Zak and his family finally took off from the airport mere days before the US left the country, the years-long effort to get Zak to America culminated in two simple words on “Wheels up.” Now in  Always Faithful , Tom and Zak tell the full story of the divergent paths that led them to Afghanistan, the dangerous road they walked together in service to America, and how their commitment to each other ended up saving them both. Brilliantly told in Tom’s and Zak’s alternating first person voices,  Always Faithful  tracks the parallel lives of these two men who each spent their childhoods in fear, peril, and poverty, and turned to war in attempt to build a meaningful future. On an inevitable course towards each other, their lives dovetail in Afghanistan’s deadly Helmand Valley, where they formed a brotherhood that transcends even the most overwhelming of odds, eventually culminating in Zak’s harrowing, eleventh-hour rescue. The end result is an intensely personal and uniquely ground-level account of Tom and Zak’s experience,  Always Faithful  gives readers a 360-degree view of the war. At once provocative and heart pounding, their stories together form a microcosm of the complicated and lasting effects of America’s longest war. Through their eyes and their experiences, they challenge readers to explore the legacy of the war for American and Afghan citizens alike, as we all collectively seek to understand whether twenty years of war was worth the price. 

Genres: Nonfiction, Military Fiction, History, Memoir, War, Leadership, Biography

336 pages, Hardcover

First published August 9, 2022

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Always Faithful" by Tom Schueman and Zainullah Zaki is a poignant and necessary narrative that sheds light on the intricate dynamics of the war in Afghanistan, particularly emphasizing the commitments made to Afghan allies and the subsequent challenges in honoring those promises. The alternating chapter format, presenting perspectives from both Schueman and Zaki, effectively immerses readers into their intertwined experiences. However, during the intense sequences at Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA), this back-and-forth structure occasionally disrupts the narrative flow, suggesting that a more integrated approach might have enhanced the storytelling.

Schueman's portrayal sometimes comes across as introspective, revealing gaps in communication with Zaki over the years, which raises questions about the depth of their bond. This candidness, however, adds layers to the narrative, showcasing the complexities of human relationships forged in war. Despite these nuances, the memoir offers profound insights into the lives of U.S. troops and the Afghan individuals who supported them, painting a vivid picture of Afghan life during the U.S. occupation and the rapid deterioration as forces withdrew. It prompts readers to reflect on the U.S. government's miscalculations regarding the Afghan government's sustainability and the broader implications of such oversights.

Critics have echoed similar sentiments. The Small Wars Journal commends the book for providing "background depth of both the US and Afghan allies’ experience surrounding the war," highlighting its unique dual perspective. Meanwhile, Kirkus Reviews describes it as "an affecting memoir that weaves its way through bullets, explosives, and red tape," underscoring the bureaucratic challenges faced by Afghan allies.

In essence, "Always Faithful" is a compelling read that not only narrates personal experiences but also challenges readers to contemplate the broader consequences of international commitments and the human cost of unfulfilled promises.

[Wayne Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely well written. The war in Afghanistan was particularly. As is typical with war writing, it was quite hard to read about injuries and the effects of IEDs on the soldiers.
Always Faithful is an appropriate title. Perseverance and honor are exemplified brilliantly.
It is difficult to understand why our country cannot honor commitments made to people who gave their all to our country. It may be hard if not impossible to get folks in other countries to trust us and work with us in the future. Shame to our politicians who are so incorrect and failed to “hold up our end of the bargain”.

[Amber Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

During the fall of Kabul, the story of Zak came into my radar. I ever so intently watched and held my breath as United States Marine Corps, Major Tom Schueman did everything in his power to get his interpreter out of Kabul and to safety here in America before they were discovered by the Taliban.

As soon as I heard that this story was being made into a book, I couldn’t wait to read it. It is an incredibly insightful story, one that you wouldn’t believe until you read it. A story of brotherhood, promises, courage and dedication and commitment.

Semper Fidelis is Latin for “always faithful,” (which is where the books title derives from). Semper Fidelis symbolizes the lifelong commitment held by every Marine for the Corps and America, a promise reciprocated by the Corps to all Marines.

I would recommend this read to anyone, it confirmed what I already knew that not all people were as lucky as Zak, some did not get out and I cannot stop thinking about all the people we failed and just how close we came to failing Zak and his family also.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was the war in Afghanistan worth the cost? I don’t know. My family lost my cousin Rex in a green on blue attack on 11 March 2013. Meaning, an Afghan soldier jumped on a vehicle with a gun to then murder his own supposed allies: including fellow Afghan soldiers, my cousin, a green beret captain and an Army service dog named Bak. The sacrifice weighs heaviest on my aunt and her other son, Max, who also served in Afghanistan. Their teams of servicemen continue to suffer survivor’s guilt to a point that suicide is an ongoing travesty. As a daughter of a retired Naval officer, I have always known ‘freedom was never free.’

I am deeply grateful for the combined stories shared by Tom and Zak. I have learned much and agree with Tom that Zak and his family became a rallying point for those of us Americans who felt despondent over our government’s failure to secure promises made; leaving our allies with a proverbial knife in their backs.

This story obviously evokes inner turmoil. I relived that anguish I felt at the news of my cousin’s death, then again with news of America completely abandoning Afghans, then separately Syrians, both in desperate straights. We shafted good people due to stupidity, knowing full-well the natural consequences of betrayal would last generations and I guarantee it will bite us in the butt. I didn’t need hindsight to know it was foolish and wrong to leave hundreds of millions in weaponry to the enemy. I am no genius. I have not studied “The Art of War,” but even I knew these were blunders no one should make. So how is it our government screwed up so badly? This frustration is echoed in Tom and Zak’s memoirs. I’m sorry they personally experienced it and witnessed the hell of war. I wish it on no one. What I’m not sorry about, is the courage these men exemplified. They showed incredible valor. It is a specific respect for each other, their brethren, and their mission to protect and preserve freedom; liberty and justice for all.

If I could imagine anything positive to come from the experience it would be that a great number of Afghans tasted freedom with educational opportunities and access to technology. By the power and proliferation of their very first cell phones, they collectively learned of the world outside their own and that’s what often leaves a person wanting more; if not for themselves then something better for their children. Knowledge is power and it can inspire a desire for freedom again. Human behavior does not rapidly change over night. It’s with two steps forward, one step back. Then again, two steps forward. Progress—even incrementally—is progress. The innate human yearning for freedom throughout all of time is what gives me hope in such circumstances. This hope does not return friends or family from the grave. Nor does it remove traumatic scarring. I believe life after death is real and those who have suffered will be made whole in Christ. I hold deep respect for all people of faith and find comfort in our commonality, love of God and family.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a terrific read. The touching and riveting story of a Marine fighting in the most deadly time in Afghanistan and his Afghan interpreter. The thrilling story is told from alternating viewpoints, Tom and Zak. Follows these two till 2021 when the US left and Tom's urgent work to get Zak out of the country in which he is a man with a target on his back.

[Michael T Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

"That word, 'faithful', only means something if you attach the word, 'always' to it." Required for those who would 'locate, close with, and destroy' any enemy (physical or spiritual) in company with others--or aspire to do so.

[Mario A · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly astonishing book.

I’ve been following Major Schueman through social platforms for a few years now—prior to the fall of Afghanistan.

I had known of his service in Afghanistan through posts and mentions on his social media platform.

As the fall of Afghanistan was taking place a year ago, Zak was introduced. I listen evermore intently on what Major Schueman had to say.

This was an incredibly insightful and beautiful story of brotherhood, promises, and courage, and commitment above all else.

There were no gripes at all with this book. It couldn’t get any better than this in terms of writing style and prose.

However, it is a complete shame that Zak still does not have his Special Immigrant Visa. Zak has done more than 99% of Americans in defense of the Nation. In return, Zak should be granted his Visa. After all, the Administration promised him the documentation a year ago.

I heavily recommend this book to anyone and everyone across all spectrums of the Nation. It’s a story that deserves the recognition and internalization. This book opens a door to a cause that is larger than ourselves.

This was one of the best books of the summer that I’ve read.

Semper Fidelis.

[Mike Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend for anyone interested in how our 20 years in Afghanistan ended.

I love they way the authors alternated their parallel stories.

I don’t understand what we really accomplished in Afghanistan, but we have not experienced any terrorism similar to September 2001, so maybe this has helped - but I’m pretty skeptical.

Would really like to understand this.

[Kiki · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall I think I enjoyed Zak's chapters more because the perspective of an Afghani translator is one I haven't experienced previously. My spouse was deployed to the Middle East in the early 2000s so I have some perspective of American soldiers yet there were still aspects of Tom's stories that were very riveting because every soldier's experiences are different. The chapters towards the end with Tom's attempts to get Zak and his family out of Afghanistan safely were fast-paced and tense and in some ways even more so than the battle chapters. Also, given how solid their relationship is, I didn't realize how little time they actually spent in battle together. It just reaffirms how quickly connections can be made especially in high intensity situations. Finally, I am very frustrated that Zak's situation is still not fully resolved as of writing this in March 2023 (at least to my knowledge based on what I can find). He fully deserves his visa approval for his service.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. The dual authors approach works really well to take the reader inside the differing experiences of two men from very different cultures, wedded by shared suffering and a deep bond of trust. It provides insight into the human cost of American misadventures and into the promise this country holds for millions.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 2010, Tom Schueman served in Afghanistan as a young lieutenant in the Helmand Province. Zainullah Zaki, or “Zak,” was his Afghan interpreter, and together they fought through almost 100 days of constant battle with Taliban forces. This book tells the story of the two men—and the Marines of 3rd battalion, 5th Marines in their seven-month deployment to Sangin. It is an emotional journey because of the bond between the two men, and also because of the many Marines killed or wounded in action during these seven months.

While I’ve read quite a few books about the war in Afghanistan, this is the first one I’ve read that focuses on an Afghan interpreter and his family escaping before the American troops left and the Taliban took over in 2021. What a great read about an embarrassing time in American military and diplomatic history. It brought to the forefront of my mind all the people we failed—and how close we came to failing this one family, as well. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in modern military history or the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan.

That being said, there is one minor quibble that bothered me as I was reading this. I think the editor (or co-writer, since there seems to be a third writer who helped put the narrative together) should have worked to blend the two men’s stories better. There were a few times I found it repetitive, when I read about something from Zak and then heard the same thing in Tom’s chapter, or vice versa. For example, when Tom connected Zak with John Shattuck, who would navigate his family out of Kabul, Zak discussed it in detail, and then Tom did as well. The same happened with Zak’s attempts to get into the airport—both men discussed these incidents. They should have had one writer focus on these events (probably Zak, since he was experiencing it first-hand) and the other writer could refer to them afterwards. In the end, though, this is a minor thing and I would still highly recommend this book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review.

[Sam Lindeman · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the book “Always Faithful” the main characters Zak and Tom take the audience through their journey/paths that led them into the Afghanistan war. This book is taken in the first person perspective of Zak and Tom, so the audience can understand the same thoughts and feelings that they went through. (Spoilers) At first, Tom takes us through how he was sent to save his friend, and former Afghan interpreter, Zak. After some disturbance, the taliban gained notice and knowledge that Tom was trying to save his friends family and Zak, the Taliban attempted to stop this mission and blow it up. The two characters have very similar past lives, and motives, they both had very similar childhoods and similar reasons for joining special forces. Throughout the movie we see that their mirror like personalities give them advantages and they are able to lean on each other since they gained so much respect and trust from one another.

I felt that this book was exciting, but was not my favorite. I liked how fast and chaotic they kept it throughout the whole book, but there was not enough conflicts/struggles for the characters. I never found myself getting bored from this book because there was high action and I enjoyed how it was narrated by the main characters, it almost reminded me of “The things they carried” because even though it was similar between the two characters, they were speaking about their own experiences and I kept thinking about the comparison to the two books. I would recommend this book to someone who likes intense, high paced books, but if not I would stay away from this book.

[Laurent Reinhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I greatly appreciated this combined memoir of now Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Schueman, a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, and Zainullah Zaki, his Afghan interpreter. They bonded through intense combat in Helmand province from 2010 to 2011. The narratives cover their back stories, their service together in Afghanistan, Zaki and his family's brave escape during the the fall of Kabul in August 2021 and continued challenges. Zaki and his family reached the US but, sadly, still face an uncertain future, with Zak's visa application turned down in November 2024. I have not been able to find further updates, but can't imagine good prospects under the new administration. Scheuman and Zaki's stories are wrenching and should be required reading for all those who commit US forces to combat and deal with the aftermath.

"When I look at the log I kept between October 2010 and May 2011, I am drawn back to a time rendered in the contrasting browns of desert and the vibrant greens and reds of poppy fields. The log's shorthand reveals a stunning background staccato of violence that, had any single day of it happened in America, would have attracted an army of therapists, reporters, and editorialists clucking and gasping as political theater. For us, it was just a constant desensitization to, and normalization of, the sarage and bizarre. Among young men left unchecked, killing almost becomes an end unto itself. War is nothing but waste at its essence. Over time, our efforts in Sangin almost ritualized that waste. My entries give lie to the notion of glory in war, but at the time I was too close to the fire to worry about the burn." p129

[Eric Chandler · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the story “Soldier’s Home,” Ernest Hemingway describes a WWI veteran named Krebs and his return to civilian life after the war. Krebs wants to know how his experience fits into the big picture:
"He sat there on the porch reading a book on the war. It was a history and he was reading about all the engagements he had been in. It was the most interesting reading he had ever done. He wished there were more maps. He looked forward with a good feeling to reading all the really good histories when they would come out with good detail maps. Now he was really learning about the war. He had been a good soldier. That made a difference."

I'm like Krebs. What reading I do about Iraq and Afghanistan, I do because I want to learn about the places I flew over. I want to understand what life was like on the ground. This book does a fantastic job of describing the details of the life of a Marine infantryman on the ground in Afghanistan. But maybe more impressively, it describes what it was like to be an Afghan. An Afghan who had hope for the future and put himself in harm's way as an interpreter in order to make that future happen. The commitment of these two men to each other is an impressive story.

Every American should read this book and consider what their part was in this decades long conflict. 78,000 Afghans meet the criteria for Special Immigrant Visas and still await what they were promised when they stood up to help us. Give this a read and think on it.

[Mh Weyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book promised to be a very powerful book, especially when I realized the author is a believer. But as the book progressed, I felt like I heard the voice of the editor stronger than either of the two men. Despite being a Christian, the author is a typical marine with language, partying, and aggressive attitude. He alluded to some regrets he had regarding some of this but never came out and actually decried it as he matured as a believer. (Maybe not the point of the book but wish it had been present as it would have made the story more powerful). The translators story was interesting but felt completely scripted by the editor to raise awareness of his cause as he awaits visa status. In fact, all the details regarding his danger with the taliban felt coached like an attorney does with his client to support his side. Does it mean the danger did not exist? Absolutely not! But it does feel quite canned and perhaps worded in leading fashion.
The title comes from the statement that faithful is only as good as the word “always” that comes before it. The author wants to strive to always be faithful. Here is where I think he lost his opportunity as a believer. When he felt he had let his buddy down, he grieved. And yet what an opportunity to declare the perfect faithfulness of our Savior! Even when we fail!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been anxiously awaiting the publication of this book and I was not disappointed. Told from two very different points of view the war in Afghanistan is brought to life in a well written and personal manner. Thomas Schueman is a talented and thoughtful writer who will hopefully continue to produce well into the future. Perhaps it will be one of his post-service endeavors once he leaves his active duty Marine career. I feel he reluctantly shared more of his inner thoughts than he perhaps wanted in order to help the civilians reading this book gain insight into the world of a warrior. Major Schueman also highlights the bravery of his interpreter Zak and tells of Zak going above and beyond his paid duties more than once in defense of "his" Marines!

Zak's story told from his own point of view is both inspiring and heartbreaking and he brings us into his struggle to survive daily life in a country continually at war.

[Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Schueman writes an extraordinary book about the farce that the departure of Afghanistan became. The story centers around an Afghani interpreter who was basically cut loose when 3/5 was rotated out of Afghanistan. As things came apart later , the Taliban went on a vengence hunt for anyone who worked with the Americans and any other foreign military in the war. This left Zak in a dangerous position. Get out of Afghanistan or eventually be killed by the Taliban.

Then Lt. Schuerman, the platoon CO of the platoon Zak worked with became close friends with Zak and several years later helped Zak and his family out of Afghanistan, probably saving their lives. The story also points out the low-handed way the American government handled the emigration problem with Afghani's. This gives the U.S. Government a black eye on how to work with allies.

[Margery Gerard · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a story! Not a story. Two stories of two men side by side, fighting against the Taliban-against tyranny. Against religious dominance over tribal and family ways and especially against any who do not follow exactly the script of the Taliban. The horrors of fighting and war are bare and real. And for both men leaving war behind is almost impossible. For the American hero impossible as fighting is in his bones; for the Afghani hero leaving war is impossible as he lives with the Taliban and the pressure of being on a kill list. Despite the impossible red tape of the US government, and after death threats and years of attempts to save himself, his wife and children the "brothers" are united, for now.
A must read to know the true horror of war and the trauma of living with the Taliban.

[Linny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely important insight into Kabul and the war in Afghanistan for a civilian. I read this after reading "The Afghanistan Papers," a few months prior and this felt like a personal extension of that. Americans often don't realize the reality of what it means to live in other countries, especially a country controlled by Taliban. This touches on emotions of a Marine who lived through it, and an interpreter who had to leave his country because of our failure as a country in this war. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of mental health to active military and veterans. This tragic reality, was also a very uplifting story of what it really means to be a man, and acknowledging that war is not romantic, and shouldn't be romanticized. I highly recommend.

[Matthew C Patruno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haven't finished a book in a single day in a very long time. Compelling, thought provoking, and inspiring. I served in Iraq as a Marine infantryman and have read dozens of books about the Global War on Terror in both Iraq and Afghanistan, leading up to and after my time there. This book reconnected me to that time period of my life in ways that I haven't been in a very long time.

It was an honor to share in the story of Tom, Zak, and the Marines of 3/5 in Sangin. Just outstanding from start to finish. Being able to look at the war through Zak's the Afghan interpreter's eyes brought an element to the wars never before seen from all my readings. Truly remarkable how all worlds collide.

[Katherine Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw the interview of these valiant authors by Ali Velshi on MSNBC and immediately ordered the book. Several chapters in, I ordered a copy for my son-in-law. My husband is currently reading it and gives it a big thumbs up.
It’s the most compelling book I have read in a long time. My takeaway is that I now have a better understanding of the situation in Afghanistan, the epic problems we have in our own government with processing asylum seekers, and how very lucky I am to be living in the USA. We give a lot of “thank you for your service” acknowledgement to our veterans, but it is by no means enough. Semper Fi.

[Tricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 Major Tom Schueman and Zainullah Zaki recount their time serving together in Afghanistan-as a Marine and his Afghani interpreter and then post US drawdown as the Americans leave Afghanistan and “Zak”’s harrowing escape from the country with his wife and small children. The book was good but disjointed-it felt like Major Schueman had written a book about his military career/personal life then decided to add his relationship with Zak to story afterward, with Zak telling his part of the story. I heartily agree with the afterword about how many Afghanis the US left behind when the Taliban took over. Shame on us.

[Jessica Tengstrand · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the last several chapters of this book when it was getting into the difficulties that Tom and Zak were facing with trying to secure his SIV-super intense....I cannot even begin to fathom what that was like and what its like for all those that were left behind. It's really sad to think that we could abandon all those people who did help us when we were there. I feel like we need to do better. I also cannot believe we just dropped weapons for the Taliban to pick up and use against us and their own people (why wouldn't we take that with us), makes no sense. With as long as we had been over there I cannot believe we were not better at setting them up to be more successful against the Taliban. I mean they literally took over and went right back to the way things were before we were there. Sad to think we didn't have a more positive impact on the people and their way of life. It makes you think what was the point of even going there in the first place.

[Michael Jolls · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first memoir I've come across that offers closure to the War in Afghanistan as the co-authors chronicle their lives from the early-2000's into the early-2020s's. Additionally, because "Always Faithful" is split between the Afghanistan side and the United States side, there's a symmetry to the presentation of the history – although the U.S. portion of the narrative is a tad long winded. The book tries to remain apolitical, which almost backfires because, someone who knows the history is going to be distracted by obvious omission – however, because of its neutrality – "Always Faithful" is an ideal book to give someone unfamiliar with the War in Afghanistan if they want an overview of it.

[D Donnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible story. A revealing tale of actual war. Its consequences, good and bad although mostly horrific. The love and friendship that developed between Tom and Zak is heartwarming. Tom's relentless efforts to get Zak and his family to the States are incredible. I ran the gamut of feelings reading this book. Happy, sad, angry, disgusted and embarrassed (of our country). I'm so glad that Tom is a friend of a friend of mine. I doubt I would have known about or read it if Dan M. hadn't posted it on FB.

[Studebhawk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding in Every Way
I can relate to everything in this story. I was stationed in an Air Force Res. medical unit at Andrews A.F.B., MD. during his period of service in the war. Our medical team was responsible for the inbound-flight reception of casualties from the war. I have great admiration for our heroic medical staff who cared for our men during the Vietnam War.
The author’s story about his war experience is a tribute to Dr. Pendergrass and his medical teammates during the war.
This story is a great read.

[Genevieve Guerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

My rating is probably bias given my proximity to the war and watching different generations go to Afghanistan. As a military brat and current partner of a special forces operator I appreciated the insight of this book of why America matters and why our military matter. What stood out to me was Zak’s faith and Tom’s comparison of literature. While I have a different answer to was it worth it? I still enjoyed reading this one. Our current leaders should have faced accountability for their decisions though.

[Kelly Schueman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a strange journey reading the thoughts of a man you've known since he was born. Tom Schueman has always been a very special person. He has had a smile since childhood that projects a good and genuine heart. Reading Zak's experiences shows Tom met an equally good soul in the worst of circumstances. Excellent book. Following 2 great, unselfish men through the most difficult of circumstances. The world needs people like Tom and Zak. So glad they made it through!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, human, honest, humble. Highly recommend. The harrowing escape of Zak with his young family had me gasping on the edge of my seat. It's one thing to see/hear things from afar on the news. It's something completely different to hear a first-person account. Kudos and gratitude to Major Tom (Thomas Schueman) & Zak (Zainullah Zaki) for all their heroism and for sharing their experiences with the rest of us.

[Elizabeth W · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a powerful read that will give you a new and shocking perspective on life in, and evacuation from, Afghanistan. I wish we all had someone fighting as hard for us as Major Tom fights for Zak. I felt the book got preachy and self-righteous at times, but the translator chapters are incredible. Given the work I’m doing now, this book gave me a new perspective on Afghan refugees and life in Afghanistan.