Camels for Breakfast: New Reading Material

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February 15, 2005

New Reading Material

Since I've been so bored here lately, I decided to borrow a book from a friend. So yesterday I started the book "Princess" and read almost half the book!

It is the true story of a Saudi princess and her family. Basically, her life (and the lives of all women) are completely controlled by the men that surround her. She cannot leave the house unless she is with a man and she cannot voice any opinions. Her father and brother are considered gods and she is expected to serve them.

She tells the story of her 16 year old sister being married to a 63 year old man because it is good for her family's status. Her sister is then sexually abused by her husband and she tries to commit suicide. Luckly, her mother is able to convince the husband and the father that a divorce is the best option but the girl is still scarred for life.

I am currently in the middle of the book and can't wait to continue it. It is such a beautifully tragic story that I want to see how it ends. Two of my friends have read it and they both were extremely disturbed by the horrible stories that the princess told.

If anyone is curious about the treatment of women in the Middle East, this book is amazing. Definitely check it out!

Posted by rcollins at February 15, 2005 5:47 AM