Nov 09, 2013 10:33 AM
1194 Views
I first read "Mayada" when it was published 10 years ago and since then it has remained on my book shelf as I read it often from time to time.
This is the true biographical story about Mayada, a lady that was born into a very prominent Iraqi family with a rich and regal history, predating modern-Iraq. Mayada's story takes a sad and shocking turn when she is imprisoned on ludicrous charges and locked in a cell with a group of other innocent ladies, or "the shadow women" as they would be known as.
If you enjoyed "Mayada" or are thinking of reading this book, I would also highly recommend reading the authors new book "Yasmeena's Choice." Jean Sasson first wrote this book more than 20 years ago but could not publish it at the time because it was so shocking. "Yasmeena's Choice" is the true story of an innocent civilian lady that was captured, imprisoned and brutally raped by a cruel and demented Iraqi captain during the Kuwait invasion in 1990 by Iraq.
We also learn about Yasmeena's friend Lana that was also in a horrible circumstance that will leave the reader truly speechless. Lana reminded me of Mayada's close friend Samera that she met and befriended in her cell. "Yasmeena's Choice" includes many rare and unseen photographs in it of Kuwait and of Jean Sasson when she traveled to the country and on her freedom flight with American servicemen. There is even a new letter penned by Mayada herself, urging readers to read about "Yasmeena's Choice."
Thank you Jean Sasson for all that you have done for the plight of women all across the world. Your tireless efforts to make the world a better place is something that your readers will never forget.
