This is a true and moving account of hardships endured and risks taken by refugees and
migrants in their quest for a better life. Matthieu Aikins is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist
living in Kabul and reporting on the events in Afghanistan. By 2016, the Taliban have
re-emerged as a force to be reckoned with and many Afghans fear their return. Over the
years Matthieu has become very close to his translator and driver, Omar. So much so that
when Omar decides to flee his war-torn country which holds no future for him, for a better life
abroad Matthieu decides to undertake the journey with him.

Aikins writes about the trials and tribulations of refugees as they sacrifice all to reach their
destination and tells their stories of hope and sorrow. He takes on the guise of an Afghan,
calls himself Habib, and even burns his passport to avoid being discovered. Together with
Omar, and others, they travel through Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran (in fear of Taliban and
the police) and finally Turkey. From there they undertake the final leg to Europe, a
treacherous sea journey to Moira a Greek island, where they request asylum. They confront
human traffickers, police, activists and other men, women and children fleeing war and
deprivation competing for the same.

The book brings into sharp focus a most contentious issue of our times, the plight of
refugees and migrants. It is an absorbing and heart rending read. In building the narrative
Aikins resorts to quoting poets and philosophers, perhaps believing that they add to the
context. I felt that these were distracting and diverted from the grim reality on the ground. Yet
he is eminently qualified to tell this story, he has great empathy for the Afghans, understands
their culture and speaks their language.

It was a small group that met on Friday 26th April at Marianne’s home. The discussion was
vibrant, touching on a myriad of themes. Most liked the book and felt the author had done
justice to the book as well as himself for keeping the experience very real.

Nazi Osman