The Bookseller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad
- 1. The Bookseller of Kabul by Åsne Seierstad is a poignant and compelling narrative that immerses readers in the life of a Kabul bookseller, Sultan Khan, and his family amidst the turbulent backdrop of Afghanistan following the fall of the Taliban regime. The book not only captures the challenges faced by Khan as he strives to maintain his bookstore, which serves as a rare bastion of free thought and culture, but it also sheds light on the intricacies of Afghan society, particularly the roles and struggles of women within a patriarchal system. Seierstad's astute observations and vivid storytelling reveal the complexities of daily life in Kabul, highlighting the dichotomy between the desire for progress and the grip of tradition. Through detailed accounts of the Khan family’s interactions and experiences, the author uncovers themes of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of literature, while illustrating how the shifting political landscape continues to impact personal lives in profound and often heartbreaking ways. This narrative is not just about books and a bookstore; it is a deep exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity, making it a significant read for anyone interested in understanding Afghanistan's culture and history through the lens of its literature.
What is the primary setting of 'The Bookseller of Kabul'?
A) Afghanistan
B) Iraq
C) Pakistan
D) Iran
- 2. Who is the central figure and patriarch of the family the book follows?
A) Mohammad
B) Omar Khan
C) Shah Muhammad Rais
D) Sultan Khan
- 3. What is Sultan Khan's profession?
A) Government official
B) Bookseller
C) Teacher
D) Restaurant owner
- 4. Who is the author of the book?
A) Atiq Rahimi
B) J.K. Rowling
C) Khaled Hosseini
D) Asne Seierstad
- 5. How did the author gain the intimate access to the family that she writes about?
A) She was a distant relative.
B) She read Sultan's diary.
C) She lived with them for several months.
D) She interviewed them over the phone.
- 6. What was the primary reaction of Sultan Khan to the published book?
A) He sued the author for plagiarism.
B) He was indifferent.
C) He was delighted and proud.
D) He was angry and felt betrayed.
- 7. What is the name of Sultan's eldest son, who helps in the bookshop?
A) Ahmed
B) Omar
C) Yar Mohammad
D) Mansur
- 8. What was the original publication language of the book?
A) Dari
B) French
C) English
D) Norwegian
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