The Other Side of the Sky: A Memoir

A captivating story told in a very personal and unforgiving manor. Point blank with detail and heart that almost dares the reader to keep reading. Reading about the authors challenges and how things came across to her and her mother pull at the heart. Things are not always as they seem and its very easy to assume when never exposed to the "other side" of the story. I feel it was a very good read and other should give it a try.

Ms. Ahmedi is a very strong young lady, and she will be part of the new face of Islam as the century moves forward. Having read the story of her life and her experiences, it seems obvious she has overcome obstacles far in excess of her years, and learned a restraint and serenity in dealing with others, that many people never attain in their life, much less by age 12. Her autobiography is also revealing of the the relative isolation of women in central Asian society in general, even among more "enlightened" families like hers. Most revealing was her yearning for a new life in Germany once she experienced the lack of conflict during her time in treatment there. There are a lot of cultural gems buried within her story, and her experiences should provide hints as to the differences in perception that Afghanis of all ethnicities will have compared to how a westerner would perceive things in general. It isn't a complete catalouge of course, but it is highly informative nonetheless. As to the previous reviewer's statements about Ms. Ahmedi being taken advantage of in regards to book royalties. It is a simple matter to write to Simon & Schuster's public relations office, and ask if the claim is true and if so, express public condemnation. I am more than sure many news outlets would love to publicly embarass a major corporation for taking advantage of a former refugee new to the US and unaware of their rights.

I randomly picked this book up because I do not travel and love to read stories from other lands and different cultures. I took this book to work with me to read on break time. I did not put it down for two days until I was done. I thank Farah from the bottom of my heart for sharing her story with me. This story touched me on so many levels: the obvious, of course, is we Americans have no idea how lucky and blessed we are. But this book hit me on a very personal level. Farah still suffers from things that would have driven many into despair and a loss of belief in God, and yet her faith and drive to get to America, against all odds, moved me more than all the classics I have ever read. I am being treated for post traumatic stress disorder and Ms Farah Ahmedi has given me more strenth and has restored my faith in God more than therapy or other religious avenues. Allah has a great purpose for Ms Ahmedi, for her story shows us that there is good in the world and there are no excuses for any of us not to do our best.

A great idea and book. Ms Ahmedi's story gives a face to the events and history which are shaping all of our lives.

I just came back from the bookstore - after seeing the spot on Good Morning America this morning I ran out and got the book. It's an absolute sob story. I haven't finished it yet - but it's something... This girl has been through SO much. Her strength is amazing. I'm ordering one for my sister!