Joan Kayeum

Not So Long Ago In Afghanistan Joan Kayeum

As the young bride of an Afghan student she met at the University of Chicago, the author went to Afghanistan in 1948 where she was intrigued with a popular riddle game in which all members of the family participated. In addition to providing the evening's entertainment, the game nurtured socialization between young and old, and bound family relationships through cheerful merrymaking. In Not So Long Ago in Afghanistan, the author translated her collection of riddles into rhythmical English rhymes and presents them in a manner that recreates the social setting she experienced when she lived there. The original paintings by artist Pat Siddiq hide the clues to the riddle answers, and also acquaint the reader with family members in a social context that enhances the reality of an evening not so long ago when life in Afghanistan was peaceful and full of joy. All net proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to Joan Kayeum's foundation, FEDA (Foundation for Educational Development of Afghans) and other charities designed to promote the education of young girls and boys who live in the provinces of Afghanistan.