Caught in the Crossfire

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Disguised as an Afghan Mujahideen, Goodwin, executive editor of Ladies Home Journal, shared the dangers and hardships of life in Afghanistan for three months in 1985. While in Soviet-held Kabul on a British passport, she observed the Sovietization of the people, especially the children. This is a rare account of a war from which journalists are banned, a riveting and inspiring chronicle of heroic resistance against superior arms in a genocidal conflict waged with carpet bombing, chemical weapons and massacres. Having witnessed atrocities, the author denounces what she avers is American ambivalence toward the Afghans. Her superb reportage and powerful appeal on their behalf is enhanced by the personal stories Afghans related to her. Photos not seen by PW. Major ad/promo; author tour. (March 19)

Library Journal

Investigative reporter Goodwin, who is executive editor of Ladies Home Journal , spent three months traveling with the Afghan resistance and here writes of her experiences. Her gripping narrative and multifaceted approach to this heartbreaking war result in a book that is hard to put down. Her descriptions of refugee camps in Pakistan; trips into Afghanistan itself; a trip to Kabul, where she met government officials; and an effort to contact families of Russian soldiers killed in the war, vividly illustrate the senselessness of war. A good volume for a current affairs or general collection. Donald Clay Johnson, Coll. of William & Mary Lib., Williamsburg, Va.