West of Kabul, East of New York

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A passionate personal journey through two cultures in conflict, this work begins shortly after the World Trade Center attacks when Tamim Ansary, an Afghan American in San Francisco, sent an email to friends reflecting on U.S. reprisals against Afghanistan. His message resonated widely, reaching millions, including Afghans, Americans, soldiers, and pacifists. Ansary's insights stem from a lifetime of experiences, as he embodies both American and Afghan identities. Growing up in the intimate world of Afghan family life, he offers a perspective rarely seen by outsiders. After emigrating to San Francisco, he became involved with Afghan expatriates who dreamed of returning home, only to be drawn back to the Islamic world to explore the rise of militant religious fundamentalism. As one of the most articulate voices on the tension between Islam and the West, Ansary provides a deeply personal narrative that seeks to reconcile these two civilizations and find common ground in their imaginations. His story is not just about cultural conflict but also about the search for understanding and connection amidst profound differences.