I enjoyed the escapism of this book and often found myself putting it down at the end of a chapter to google the exotic places described. The author encourages the reader to reflect on their own sense of place and how it can reassure and comfort but also disorientate and unsettle. This a good read for anyone curious about the human relationship to place and how our ideas of freedom, escape and creativity are intrinsically linked.

For some time I was intrigued to know more about McQueen. I feel the biography really captures the essence of his character and the struggle in the fashion world to become an iconic brand. The author draws on first hand accounts to eloquently depict McQueen and the challenges he faced in his personal and professional life. The biography is full of raw emotion and doesn‘t fluff over the sometimes shocking lifestyle of the designer.

I expected more around the literatures of Afghanistan and of the challenges to obtaining/reading/selling books in the country. However, the storyline provids an insightful look into the experiences of afghan families and the daily challenges and struggles of life. The author really brings this to life during her time living with the Khan family and at times I found myself enthralled in the character‘s adventures.