Lipstick in Afghanistan

The effects of years of war and conflict are poignantly portrayed in this debut. Drawing on her work as a nurse and aid worker, Gately creates a believable story about the ethical and cultural dilemmas humanitarians face. The book highlights the strength it takes to live with constant danger and still choose hope.

Through an American nurse and a young Afghan woman, we see oppression and the empowering nature of friendship. The contrast between cultures is sharp . . . the love story is the weakest thread, but the novel remains a well written, engaging read. Recommended for readers interested in strong women, the human cost of war, and stories set in Afghanistan.

Roberta Gately's lyrical and authentic debut follows Elsa, a determined ER nurse from Boston who travels to Bamiyan after 9/11. Life at a small clinic exposes her to devastation and danger, but also to friendship and unexpected courage. A forbidden romance complicates her new world, and a single tube of lipstick becomes a symbol of resolve and connection. As Elsa and her neighbor Parween risk everything to protect friends and family from the worst excesses of the Taliban, Elsa discovers the warrior within. This intimate novel is a tribute to friendship and a reminder of the human cost of war.

1. Elsa's naivete shapes her choices. Is it a strength that helps her embrace Bamiyan, or a liability that blinds her to danger.

2. Elsa tells Mike he will see her Afghanistan . . . good friends and gentle people. Can two people in the same place have experiences that are this different based on role and mission.

3. The story uses third person limited through Elsa and at times Parween. Why is this perspective effective. Whose viewpoint would you add or center.

4. Would Elsa and Mike's relationship have progressed as quickly in Boston. Does living in a high risk setting give Elsa a courage she would not have at home.

5. Elsa plans to go anywhere they need us. After all that happens, will she continue this work. Was the decision to replace her warranted.

6. The novel features many strong women. What does Elsa learn from Margaret, Maureen, Parween, Amina, Rahima, and Laila. What might they learn from her.

7. Most men are drawn as clearly good or evil. Did you find that too simple. How does the book show men as both victims and perpetrators while women are almost solely victims.

8. Parween tells Elsa she is too rigid and asks only whether Mike would save Hamid. Do you agree with focusing on a single moral question, or with Elsa's desire to weigh complexity.

9. Parween risks everything by jumping from the tree to surprise the Taliban. Was this selfish or selfless. How should she weigh her duty to her daughter and mother.

10. The legend of the lady rebel recurs. What does it symbolize. How does Parween become the embodiment of the legend.

11. Do karma or fate drive key events. Share examples that support your view.

12. Does the ending leave you hopeful for the women of Bamiyan and for Elsa, or does futility linger. How do the themes connect to your real world views on war and change.

13. Discuss the symbolism of lipstick for Elsa, Parween, and Mariam. If it represents one core idea, what is it.