THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

Farida Sultana relates the story of her unhappy marriage to a brutal, selfish man.  Born during the late 1960’s in Bangladesh, to wealthy parents, her marriage was arranged by her father.  Her husband, at the time, was in medical school.

 

After following her husband for years to different countries and suffering years of abuse, it is in New Zealand, with the help of other women and organizations for women, such as Shakti, that Farida gained control over her life.  Farida began volunteering at a woman's shelter which essentially became her life's work, as she later opened a branch of Shakti in Auckland.

Farida becomes involved in local politics and was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for her work in the community.  Farida continues her work to help women in third world countries.

The name Farida Sultana translates as ,"extraordinary princess."    The author chose the title, "Dandelion" because the flower is hardy and weathers all circumstances.