Homeira Qaderi

was born in 1980 in Kabul. Her passion for education and literature was clear from a young age. She pursued her higher education in Iran and eventually earned a Ph.D. in Persian literature from Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, India. Upon her return to Afghanistan, she took on roles as an educator and activist. She served as a professor at Gharjistan University in Kabul, becoming an influential figure in the realm of education. She extended her influence into the political sphere, working as a senior advisor to both the minister of education and the minister of labor, social affairs, martyrs affairs, and the disabled.

Qaderi has distinguished herself as a powerful voice in literature, with her work focusing on her experiences as an Afghan woman. She has published seven books, including the celebrated novel »Noqra: The Daughter of Kabul River« (2009). The novel offers a vivid portrayal of Afghan life, characterized by a blend of historical and societal insights, serving as an exemplar of Qaderi’s capacity to weave complex narratives. Her other works demonstrate her versatile writing skills, ranging from short stories to children’s books.

Perhaps her most poignant work, »Dancing in the Mosque: An Afghan Mother’s Letter to Her Son« (2020), marked her debut in English translation. This work was well-received and recognized by »Kirkus Reviews« as one of the best nonfiction books of 2020. Through this deeply personal narrative, Qaderi exemplifies her emotive writing style and her ability to draw readers into her experiences.

Her latest project, a novel titled »Tell Me Everything«, draws largely from her personal experiences. The narrative follows a girl from Kabul who is kidnapped during the Soviet-Afghan war, covering her life under Taliban rule, the American invasion, and her immigration to Smyrna, Delaware.

Qaderi’s dedication to human rights activism has been recognized, notably with the Malalai Medal, Afghanistan’s highest civilian honor. Her commitment to literature also led to a writer’s residency at the University of Iowa in 2015.

After the fall of Kabul in August 2021, Qaderi and her son left Afghanistan on one of the last American planes. Today, Qaderi lives and works in the United States as an activist, author, and educator.

Dich zu verlieren oder mich: Die Geschichte einer afghanischen Mutter

Arche Literatur Verlag
Zürich, 2023
[Ü: Eva Kemper]