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Princess: Stepping Out of The Shadows*
In the international bestseller, The True Story of Life Behind the Veil in Saudi Arabia , Princess Al-Sa’ud and the acclaimed author Jean Sasson began a remarkable series of books. Now, more than twenty-five years later, this compelling journey continues as we follow the fortunes and the dazzling life of the Princess, her friends and her family.
But, of course, there is a less glamorous, much darker side to this engaging series, and in Stepping Out of the Shadows Jean and the Princess focus their attention on how, despite positive news on civil rights reforms, Saudi women still suffer physical and psychological abuse and have little legal protection due to the archaic guardianship laws of the land. So, although this is a kingdom on the threshold of revolutionary change – change spearheaded by the young Saudi Crown Prince who is keen to modernize his country – any thoughts of equal rights and the chance to lead an independent life remain little more than dreams for most Saudi women.
Whilst the Princess acknowledges and welcomes the reforms that are on the horizon, through stories of joy and sorrow, we see how she is determined to continue to fight for equal rights for women in this, her beloved kingdom.
But, of course, there is a less glamorous, much darker side to this engaging series, and in Stepping Out of the Shadows Jean and the Princess focus their attention on how, despite positive news on civil rights reforms, Saudi women still suffer physical and psychological abuse and have little legal protection due to the archaic guardianship laws of the land. So, although this is a kingdom on the threshold of revolutionary change – change spearheaded by the young Saudi Crown Prince who is keen to modernize his country – any thoughts of equal rights and the chance to lead an independent life remain little more than dreams for most Saudi women.
Whilst the Princess acknowledges and welcomes the reforms that are on the horizon, through stories of joy and sorrow, we see how she is determined to continue to fight for equal rights for women in this, her beloved kingdom.
368 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 1, 2019
I love the first three of these books, and they were eye opening and educational, but this is just boring and repetitive. Waxing poetic about past history, how wonderful the family is and politics.
Yes they help and strive for better and equality, but the previous books, had more thoughts put into actions. This is more of a fanfare to the new Crown Prince, who may or may not make changes, but is certainly making headlines.
Her storytelling now is too wistful and the whole beginning where she 'dreams' of the past is pointless and honestly where the book started to lose me.
Yes they help and strive for better and equality, but the previous books, had more thoughts put into actions. This is more of a fanfare to the new Crown Prince, who may or may not make changes, but is certainly making headlines.
Her storytelling now is too wistful and the whole beginning where she 'dreams' of the past is pointless and honestly where the book started to lose me.
Want to read
August 23, 2020Well,well,well.Jean Sasson is not yet done with her Saudi Arabian series.Yet another volume,this one from 2018.
Bound to be more repetition,and some more fanciful stuff.But I won't mind taking a look and skimming it.
Bound to be more repetition,and some more fanciful stuff.But I won't mind taking a look and skimming it.
November 19, 2018
This series really educates me in a very different culture and a society of Women I may never get to meet. I love that Sultana is a feminist and manages to help Women in her own discrete way. I feel like I have followed this series all my adult life and their world is changing for the better, slowly.
April 15, 2019
Princess: Stepping Out of the Shadows is the latest non-fiction book by acclaimed author and Middle East expert Jean Sasson. This is the sixth book in the biographical Princess series which was published in 2018.
Every time Jean Sasson comes out with a new book I always try to read it as soon as I can because I always learn so much. Her books are all so fascinating and inspiring. Stepping Out of the Shadows also includes so many details and important historical facts about Saudi history and Middle East culture.
The front of the book includes a descriptive map of Saudi Arabia and the surrounding countries and the back of the book includes a total of five appendices with a plethora of useful information. If you are new to Jean Sasson's work you will be surprised at all of the facts she includes because it is highly detailed (with factual information in timelines up until and including 2018) and extremely educational. No other author goes out of his or her way like this to educate their readers and no other author knows more about what life is like for women in the Middle East (and particularly the mysterious land of Saudi Arabia) than Jean Sasson.
Like all of the Princess books we learn more about Princess Sultana and her family and her tireless effort to make Saudi Arabia a more hospitable place for the females of her desert kingdom.
We hear more about Princess Sultana's two daughters, Maha and Amani who go together like oil and vinegar. We also hear about the Princess's grandchildren and in particular her namesake, Little Sultana who is carrying on the torch of equality that her grandmother lit many years ago.
Since Jean Sasson wrote the first Princess book more than 26 years ago (not to mention the first biographical women's book based in the Middle East) so much has changed in Saudi Arabia. Women are finally being afforded some freedoms thanks in part to the new Crown Prince of the kingdom. The Princess talks extensively about these latest events and changes and about the Crown Prince who she knows.
Sadly there is also a lot of tragedy that must be told and never forgotten. The Princess's own life is always filled with lots of intrigue. She talks about some of her health problems and how she overcame them. Although Princess Sultana is highly dramatic (although not temperamental) and is somewhat delicate and prone to fainting she is also very candid and brave as she goes over the most intimate details of her life. In particular, I was very interested in reading about her hypothyroidism because I have a relative that has the exact same condition. When she talked about her hands shaking I knew it was a symptom because my relative had the same problem.
The Princess also discusses the guardianship law of Saudi Arabia which makes it impossible for a woman to ever live freely on her own. I found this absolutely fascinating and I would love to read an entire book that talks about how women's lives are affected by this barbaric law. No matter how old a woman is she must always have a guardian (once she marries it usually becomes her husband but if he passes away it could be her son or revert back to the head of her original family). The princess is resolute that the guardianship law must be overturned because if a woman has a cruel and heartless guardian her life will be at his mercy.
The newest book includes a lot of news about Princess Sultana's extended family, in particular her nieces, her beloved sister Sara, and her wicked bother Ali who went out of his way to make her childhood miserable. I was so happy to hear about the princess's niece Munira who was forced into marriage slavery by her ruthless father Ali to an even more evil man. Fortunately, poor Munira's life has improved only because the tyrant she was married to had passed away.
It is important to mention that although this is the sixth book in the series it need not be read in any particular order. If you have not read the other five Princess books you will not need to read them first, although you will most assuredly want to read them after you complete Stepping Out of the Shadows because the true stories and characters and circumstances are all so captivating.
One aspect that I think everyone can agree on after reading Stepping Out of the Shadows is that money cannot buy freedom or true happiness. Even though Princess Sultana lives in beautiful palaces and is worth billions of dollars she is still captive, like a bird in a cage. The money and jewels and the material luxuries and jet airplanes are not enviable in the least, especially when you consider the fact that she does not have the freedom to go with any of this. Princess Sultana is constantly at the charity of her husband (again, because of the guardianship law). Nevertheless, the princess is still fortunate because her husband is kind and loving towards her and her daughters.
I wish to thank Jean Sasson for always being true to the women of Saudi Arabia and telling their real-life stories. She is always very respectful towards the Middle East culture and sensitive to the people while still going out of her way to educate the world on the sadness that so many women are forced to suffer because of something that they had absolutely no control over (being born a female). I look forward to reading the author's next book because I always learn so much.
Every time Jean Sasson comes out with a new book I always try to read it as soon as I can because I always learn so much. Her books are all so fascinating and inspiring. Stepping Out of the Shadows also includes so many details and important historical facts about Saudi history and Middle East culture.
The front of the book includes a descriptive map of Saudi Arabia and the surrounding countries and the back of the book includes a total of five appendices with a plethora of useful information. If you are new to Jean Sasson's work you will be surprised at all of the facts she includes because it is highly detailed (with factual information in timelines up until and including 2018) and extremely educational. No other author goes out of his or her way like this to educate their readers and no other author knows more about what life is like for women in the Middle East (and particularly the mysterious land of Saudi Arabia) than Jean Sasson.
Like all of the Princess books we learn more about Princess Sultana and her family and her tireless effort to make Saudi Arabia a more hospitable place for the females of her desert kingdom.
We hear more about Princess Sultana's two daughters, Maha and Amani who go together like oil and vinegar. We also hear about the Princess's grandchildren and in particular her namesake, Little Sultana who is carrying on the torch of equality that her grandmother lit many years ago.
Since Jean Sasson wrote the first Princess book more than 26 years ago (not to mention the first biographical women's book based in the Middle East) so much has changed in Saudi Arabia. Women are finally being afforded some freedoms thanks in part to the new Crown Prince of the kingdom. The Princess talks extensively about these latest events and changes and about the Crown Prince who she knows.
Sadly there is also a lot of tragedy that must be told and never forgotten. The Princess's own life is always filled with lots of intrigue. She talks about some of her health problems and how she overcame them. Although Princess Sultana is highly dramatic (although not temperamental) and is somewhat delicate and prone to fainting she is also very candid and brave as she goes over the most intimate details of her life. In particular, I was very interested in reading about her hypothyroidism because I have a relative that has the exact same condition. When she talked about her hands shaking I knew it was a symptom because my relative had the same problem.
The Princess also discusses the guardianship law of Saudi Arabia which makes it impossible for a woman to ever live freely on her own. I found this absolutely fascinating and I would love to read an entire book that talks about how women's lives are affected by this barbaric law. No matter how old a woman is she must always have a guardian (once she marries it usually becomes her husband but if he passes away it could be her son or revert back to the head of her original family). The princess is resolute that the guardianship law must be overturned because if a woman has a cruel and heartless guardian her life will be at his mercy.
The newest book includes a lot of news about Princess Sultana's extended family, in particular her nieces, her beloved sister Sara, and her wicked bother Ali who went out of his way to make her childhood miserable. I was so happy to hear about the princess's niece Munira who was forced into marriage slavery by her ruthless father Ali to an even more evil man. Fortunately, poor Munira's life has improved only because the tyrant she was married to had passed away.
It is important to mention that although this is the sixth book in the series it need not be read in any particular order. If you have not read the other five Princess books you will not need to read them first, although you will most assuredly want to read them after you complete Stepping Out of the Shadows because the true stories and characters and circumstances are all so captivating.
One aspect that I think everyone can agree on after reading Stepping Out of the Shadows is that money cannot buy freedom or true happiness. Even though Princess Sultana lives in beautiful palaces and is worth billions of dollars she is still captive, like a bird in a cage. The money and jewels and the material luxuries and jet airplanes are not enviable in the least, especially when you consider the fact that she does not have the freedom to go with any of this. Princess Sultana is constantly at the charity of her husband (again, because of the guardianship law). Nevertheless, the princess is still fortunate because her husband is kind and loving towards her and her daughters.
I wish to thank Jean Sasson for always being true to the women of Saudi Arabia and telling their real-life stories. She is always very respectful towards the Middle East culture and sensitive to the people while still going out of her way to educate the world on the sadness that so many women are forced to suffer because of something that they had absolutely no control over (being born a female). I look forward to reading the author's next book because I always learn so much.
June 9, 2023
I was pretty excited to see Jean Sasson wrote another Sultana book, but this one was just ok. There was a lot of call backs to the previous books which felt repetitive for people like me who already read those. There are a few nice moments with her family that I appreciated, but alot of this book is seemly praise and fanfare for the upcoming prince. Well, in 2023 this has aged pretty poorly as he has been linked to a few nefarious things. Who knows though maybe he will keep his promise on granting further rights to women in the Saudi kingdom. Regards of his reputation I really didn’t want to sorry to be so focused around him.
January 14, 2020
It is always a pleasurable reading experience to delight oneself in the other's gossip. Fun read and not too gruesome as her previous two books.
October 23, 2018
Knowing this is a true story made it more exciting to me. Stories like this need to be told and heard every day. I really enjoyed the way the writer was telling the story and at times I became emotional and felt like I was a character in the story. It makes you sit and wonder what you can do to help other women in this situation. It is heartbreaking and yet show how brave these women are. I will read her other books, she has a very stylish way of narrating true stories.
Many thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for provide me with the soft copy to read and share my opinion.
Many thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for provide me with the soft copy to read and share my opinion.
January 23, 2022
I have very mixed feelings about this one. I've read quite a few in the Princess series - Princess Sultana's (not her real name) accounts of her life and experiences in Saudi Arabia, as written by Jean Sasson. Sasson has an easy way of writing which draws you in, keeps you going but doesn't get dry or dull. Having said all that, given that this is a far way through the series a part of me is wondering about what the point of this book was. There's no big theme, although Sultana's continuing frustrations over the repression of women runs through the book, and we see her daughter, Maha working on her charities helping persecuted women get out of their neighbour, Syria. There's a few harrowing personal stories from there. But otherwise it's a lot of chatting and hanging out with friends and family and talking about their obscene wealth. It is obscene. They live in these massive palace complexes, with their own health centres, her son has a kitten bred in Europe flown across in their private jet for the slightly precocious daughter (just... what? climate change isn't an issue for the rich obviously). The style of voice did grate a little. I don't know whether it's because I've grown a lot more cynical and generally older than when I last read these books, but it's like reading an heraldic poem when you hear them talking about the country and how marvellous their relatives are. Well, except for her spoilt, plotting brother. There's a bit of drama about him and his daughter always trying to steal the only photo of their mother, which Sultana has hung in some ruby encrusted archway. Could they not just scan the photo and get a lot of prints done or am I missing something here?
There's a lot of talk about the new crown prince and how he's going to bring freedom and greatness to the kingdom, more liberty for women, and everyone's so hopeful for the future. There's worrying moments when Sultana is speaking to one of her friends and they mention that anyone who says anything against the government finds themselves locked up... oh, but he's just a young man with passion, he'll get better when he's older, they say. The first cracks are showing. And as Sultana writes in the epilogue, after this period in her life depicted, their hopes were cruelly dashed. Nothing good came of it all. The most internationally well known incident is probably the assassination he ordered of that journalist in Turkey. Not a great guy to have on the team.
There was one section in the book which made me uncomfortable, given that it was coming from someone who calls herself a humanitarian. The subject of corporal punishment and execution (it's a public outdoor event with a big guy and a sword chopping heads off). I don't know whether she avoids saying anything controversial because she doesn't want to push her luck, and critisising the state over their treatment of women is enough, or whether she just agrees with it, but to quote her words: "whilst I am sad and sorry that such punishments are inflicted I have no better plan of how to permanently stop murderers and rapists, for such hard-hearted criminals appear addicted to their crime of choice, leaving countless innocent victims in their wake." Right, because every murderer is a serial murderer, no one ever killed in self-defence, there never was a miscarriage of justice (in a country that will lock people away and torture them without charge for years), because there's no chance of rehabilitation, because a country isn't judged on how it deals out its justice... Besides which, from her accounts, it sounds like a lot of the rapists work in the justice system. And this is also a justice system: "The most serious crimes in Saudi are murder, rape, adultery, armed robbery and drug-trafficking, all of which result in a sentance of death by beheading." You get executed for having an affair. She doesn't mention same-sex relationships either, which is also punishable by death. One of her daughters in gay. How can she support the death penalty to any degree? And surely the obvious answer is, there will always be bad apples in every society, but sort out how you're bringing up your children and the society they are growing up in. That seems a much better option than making a public spectacle of chopping people's heads off whilst allowing people in your judicary system to torture and rape people. So yes, that bad of the book left me feeling uncomfortable with all of it.
On a completely different note, it mentioned in the biographies at the end that Jean Sasson is going to write her autobiography. That could be an interesting one.
Borrowed from the library.
There's a lot of talk about the new crown prince and how he's going to bring freedom and greatness to the kingdom, more liberty for women, and everyone's so hopeful for the future. There's worrying moments when Sultana is speaking to one of her friends and they mention that anyone who says anything against the government finds themselves locked up... oh, but he's just a young man with passion, he'll get better when he's older, they say. The first cracks are showing. And as Sultana writes in the epilogue, after this period in her life depicted, their hopes were cruelly dashed. Nothing good came of it all. The most internationally well known incident is probably the assassination he ordered of that journalist in Turkey. Not a great guy to have on the team.
There was one section in the book which made me uncomfortable, given that it was coming from someone who calls herself a humanitarian. The subject of corporal punishment and execution (it's a public outdoor event with a big guy and a sword chopping heads off). I don't know whether she avoids saying anything controversial because she doesn't want to push her luck, and critisising the state over their treatment of women is enough, or whether she just agrees with it, but to quote her words: "whilst I am sad and sorry that such punishments are inflicted I have no better plan of how to permanently stop murderers and rapists, for such hard-hearted criminals appear addicted to their crime of choice, leaving countless innocent victims in their wake." Right, because every murderer is a serial murderer, no one ever killed in self-defence, there never was a miscarriage of justice (in a country that will lock people away and torture them without charge for years), because there's no chance of rehabilitation, because a country isn't judged on how it deals out its justice... Besides which, from her accounts, it sounds like a lot of the rapists work in the justice system. And this is also a justice system: "The most serious crimes in Saudi are murder, rape, adultery, armed robbery and drug-trafficking, all of which result in a sentance of death by beheading." You get executed for having an affair. She doesn't mention same-sex relationships either, which is also punishable by death. One of her daughters in gay. How can she support the death penalty to any degree? And surely the obvious answer is, there will always be bad apples in every society, but sort out how you're bringing up your children and the society they are growing up in. That seems a much better option than making a public spectacle of chopping people's heads off whilst allowing people in your judicary system to torture and rape people. So yes, that bad of the book left me feeling uncomfortable with all of it.
On a completely different note, it mentioned in the biographies at the end that Jean Sasson is going to write her autobiography. That could be an interesting one.
Borrowed from the library.
November 17, 2018
Told in the POV of Princess Sultana, this book is about her life, history of Saudi Arabia, their lifestyle and changing social situation, and fighting for women's rights in the Land of the Deserts.
I did not enjoy the narrative's style, it had this lofty quality to it and read stiffly. The women in the book were admirable for donating and fighting for the cause of their lesser endowed sisters across Arabia, and they themselves are strong for having endured the oppression of the guardianship rule for so long. But I also found their countenance quite frail and delicate, everything called for a sweet tea or a sit down or a nap. Even the case of a portrait warranted many sleepless nights, security specialists and drama. Yes, it was a precious item and in danger of being stolen, but was there a need for such melodrama?
Also, she stated that non-Muslims won't understand that strangers aren't allowed to see the likeness of her belated, pious mother and if that were to happen it'd be the 'greatest sin'. She also said that only family members are invited to view it. I would just like to point out that I'm a practicing Muslim and, no, it would not be the 'greatest sin', and, no, females(be it stranger or family) are allowed to see each other without a veil.
At times, the princess comes off as supercilious, although she has good intentions and a kind heart. The other ladies were quite distinct and colorful in their personalities. I loved Dalal's humor!
The narrative was sometimes jumpy and the history paragraphs bored me. But that's just my preference, many of you might be interested in reading it. Princess Sultana's opinions of the Crown Prince comes off as saccharine, defending his actions even when they're questionable. I do agree that he's bringing a revolutionary change for the women and that's wholly commendable and long overdue, but don't sugarcoat and dismiss any of his dubious actions.
Despite all the misgivings I had for this book, I have to say that just reading one book in this series is sufficient to bring awareness of the dire and despicably atrocious plight of the women and girls in war-torn countries and under abusive men and totalitarian regimes. I hope that, in spite of the swooning ladies and history lessons, this book will bring awareness and convince more of us to join in fighting for their cause.
Readers looking for a dose of drama will find them, you will also find that these enigmatic, veiled women are just like their sisters in other countries, with hopes and ambitions.
I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to INscribe Digital and NetGalley, in return for my honest opinion.
I did not enjoy the narrative's style, it had this lofty quality to it and read stiffly. The women in the book were admirable for donating and fighting for the cause of their lesser endowed sisters across Arabia, and they themselves are strong for having endured the oppression of the guardianship rule for so long. But I also found their countenance quite frail and delicate, everything called for a sweet tea or a sit down or a nap. Even the case of a portrait warranted many sleepless nights, security specialists and drama. Yes, it was a precious item and in danger of being stolen, but was there a need for such melodrama?
Also, she stated that non-Muslims won't understand that strangers aren't allowed to see the likeness of her belated, pious mother and if that were to happen it'd be the 'greatest sin'. She also said that only family members are invited to view it. I would just like to point out that I'm a practicing Muslim and, no, it would not be the 'greatest sin', and, no, females(be it stranger or family) are allowed to see each other without a veil.
At times, the princess comes off as supercilious, although she has good intentions and a kind heart. The other ladies were quite distinct and colorful in their personalities. I loved Dalal's humor!
The narrative was sometimes jumpy and the history paragraphs bored me. But that's just my preference, many of you might be interested in reading it. Princess Sultana's opinions of the Crown Prince comes off as saccharine, defending his actions even when they're questionable. I do agree that he's bringing a revolutionary change for the women and that's wholly commendable and long overdue, but don't sugarcoat and dismiss any of his dubious actions.
Despite all the misgivings I had for this book, I have to say that just reading one book in this series is sufficient to bring awareness of the dire and despicably atrocious plight of the women and girls in war-torn countries and under abusive men and totalitarian regimes. I hope that, in spite of the swooning ladies and history lessons, this book will bring awareness and convince more of us to join in fighting for their cause.
Readers looking for a dose of drama will find them, you will also find that these enigmatic, veiled women are just like their sisters in other countries, with hopes and ambitions.
I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to INscribe Digital and NetGalley, in return for my honest opinion.
November 2, 2018
If I hadn't read any others in this series of books about Saudi Princess Sultana, I would have enjoyed this one more, but as it covers much of the same ground as the earlier books, it loses some of its impact. Nevertheless, it’s still fascinating to have an account of what life is like for Princess Sultana and her family, and of course for all the other women in Saudi Arabia. Although she is part of the rich and powerful Saudi royal family, she doesn’t pull any punches, and is fiercely critical of the way women are treated. She has many horrifying stories to tell, some from within her own family. It puzzles me that she is allowed to get away with it – if anyone else were this outspoken, I dread to think what would happen to them. But even though she is a Princess, she is still bound by many of the archaic laws and traditions that still hold sway in the country, and this is starkly illuminated for the reader when she is called to a medical emergency but has to make sure nevertheless that she is appropriately dressed and has her abaya with her. She has enormous respect for the current Crown Prince and has great faith that he will work for the good of women, and that he is more enlightened than his predecessors, but after the recent (October 2018) murder of Kashoggi, one has to wonder if anything is going to change. Yes, women now have the right to drive (although I believe there are still restrictions) but they are a long way from emancipation and still have an appointed guardian who controls their every move. I’m not as convinced as Princess Sultana that we shall see any great change soon. The book ends with some very useful appendices, including a Saudi Arabia timeline which makes for some blood-curdling reading when we learn of the punishments handed out to transgressors against Saudi moral laws. One poor man is imprisoned and flogged for kissing his girlfriend in the mall. A woman is arrested and imprisoned for wearing nail varnish. Executions and floggings are commonplace. And yet, of course, we in the west count Saudi Arabia as an ally. Take from that what you will. Apparently barbaric laws and inhumane punishments count for little where trade is concerned. However, I digress. This is a book well worth reading for an insight into life in this repressive country, and I admire the Princess for daring to speak out.
Edited 2/11/2018 Just read that there is controversy over whether Princess Sultana actually exists or whether Jean Sasson has made her up.
Edited 2/11/2018 Just read that there is controversy over whether Princess Sultana actually exists or whether Jean Sasson has made her up.
February 12, 2019
This book is an autobiographical account of Princess Sultana and her royal life in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Sultana enjoys a life of privilege and wealth. Contrary to what a western reader might think, Sultana's marriage is one of love and she and her husband get on well. She does not suffer the way other locals might, but has access to the best medicine and education. Yet, she does not allow this to make her complacent. In her book, Sultana boldly speaks up about the gender divide in Saudi Arabia. She speaks of young girls being brutally raped by family members or gangs and how this essentially makes them marriageable, bringing shame on the family, and sometimes even landing them in prison, receiving lashes, or ultimately being killed to reduce the shame and stigma even though it was not their fault they were violated. In this country, some children are still married off to men much older than them, have a less educational opportunities, and in the far past were even buried alive or the recipients of female infanticide because parents preferred male children. Nevertheless, the stories and histories are not all grim. In face, despite what many might think, the Prophet Muhammad actually did a lot of good for Saudi women given them more rights then previously, and the general society in recent years has really taken off in reform finally allowing women to drive and even have a voice politically. Sultana recognizes and is grateful for the direction Saudi Arabia has started to take and she is hopefully that it will continue in this vein. Sultana herself is a reformist who advocates and gives money to charities providing women with educational opportunities and helping enable them to get out of abusive marriages. I really enjoyed this story. Some parts were perhaps difficult to hear, but it was also filled with hope. Saudi Arabia is not just some "backward country" as many in the West would believe - it is a country of promise and beauty and by standing up together, slowly men and women are learning to be equal, to interact with one another, and to truly be happy.
October 21, 2019
The book throws light at the male dominated land of middle east where marrying off a girl just after she reaches puberty to men 30-40 years older then her or making her the 3rd or 4th wife at such a tender age , getting raped and abused by cynical mens is a very common sight . You will also read about the barbarity of strict guardian laws in Saudi Arabia which leaves women’s powerless and always give benefit to the men’s and follow guardian laws which means even if a female complains about anything or give her statement, the judgement will be given based on what her guardian (husband or father) thinks.
Also the condition of women Of Syria and Yemen are discussed. The book is a great step towards the fight to change the conditions of women in middle east and stand against the oppression.
I would urge everyone to read it. Jean Sasson is one of the brilliant authors whose work you should definitely read.
Also the condition of women Of Syria and Yemen are discussed. The book is a great step towards the fight to change the conditions of women in middle east and stand against the oppression.
I would urge everyone to read it. Jean Sasson is one of the brilliant authors whose work you should definitely read.
October 20, 2018
this book is pretty amazing I have to say. its the story of the life of a princess in Saudi Arabia, she talks about her friends and family, threw out the story she acknowledges greatly how Saudi is changing for the better and thanks to who (in her opinion). yet she must also tell us about the less seen side, as she talks and explains her thoughts I see her as a strong powerful woman. by the way, she talks about her beautiful country she makes me want to visit it sometime which is something I wouldn't have thought of if you want to learn more about her and her marvelous stories I advise you to read the book. I rated it 5 stars because I am really interested in those types of books I find bios really cool and fun to read
July 19, 2020
It is always the much awaited book, since I read the complete sequel. Well sometimes it feels like Jean is making it all as if it’s based on truth, then the princess would have identified ages before.
Saudi Arabia is the country where our Prophet Muhammad PBUH born & lived, it belong more to us then yours, since we are the his direct descendants, I wish to give my message to the princess if she really exists that please don’t spoil the minds of women, also see yourself you’re like one of infidels since the way you’re telling the word about the sinful nature of your daughter (lesbian), also do you got a certificate of poking nose in anybody’s affair?
Saudi Arabia is the country where our Prophet Muhammad PBUH born & lived, it belong more to us then yours, since we are the his direct descendants, I wish to give my message to the princess if she really exists that please don’t spoil the minds of women, also see yourself you’re like one of infidels since the way you’re telling the word about the sinful nature of your daughter (lesbian), also do you got a certificate of poking nose in anybody’s affair?
November 19, 2020
𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓, 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅. 𝑯𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍𝒔. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆.
This feeling is a everyday-fact in the lives of millions of girls living in Saudi Arabia. The country is indeed a richland and has made many strides in past years.
Yet, even in the 21st century, the pain inflicted by the very thought of those lines remains the same.
𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝑭𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔...!
Coming across this beauty was one of the best things that happened this quarantine. It will satisfy any voracious reader's quest for a story that is full of existential questions.
This feeling is a everyday-fact in the lives of millions of girls living in Saudi Arabia. The country is indeed a richland and has made many strides in past years.
Yet, even in the 21st century, the pain inflicted by the very thought of those lines remains the same.
𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝑭𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔...!
Coming across this beauty was one of the best things that happened this quarantine. It will satisfy any voracious reader's quest for a story that is full of existential questions.
December 20, 2018
I am kinda iffy on this book. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had not read the other books containgin Sultana in it. This one felt unfinished, or rushed in my opinion. I liked that all you had to do was read one of these books, this one even and it would bring to light all the dire and oppressive situations women face in that part of the world. It is a very educational book without being the boring read of a text book situation.
June 23, 2020
I have heard a lot of rave reviews about the previous books by the author which compelled me to pick this book. The book has heart-wrenching stories about the condition of women in Arabia, Yemen, Syria, and how the society male-dominated society works.
The only issue I had with the book is that there is a lot of fanfare about how the Crown Prince is expected to bring positive changes in the prevailing laws of the country, who may or may not bring the desired changes.
The only issue I had with the book is that there is a lot of fanfare about how the Crown Prince is expected to bring positive changes in the prevailing laws of the country, who may or may not bring the desired changes.
April 3, 2022
This was my first foray into the Princess series, and as such it was an eye-opening and interesting semi-fictional journey into a place, people and culture far removed from my own. It is impossible to distinguish fact from fiction here, and one wonders whether the main characters are truly based on real life counterparts in the Saudi Arabian royal family, but at the end of the day every experience and incident that is described resonates and strikes one as finding their basis in fact.
December 17, 2021
This book shows the struggles that saudi women face. Even being a princess has its own struggles in saudi, it gives us an account about saudi arabia and its women and how the laws of the country has affected all especially women. But the princess and other women believe that the new crown Prince will make things better
January 16, 2021
Inspiring
This book made me realize what the women of Saudi Arabia have to endure. Despite all the hardships they are faced with, many, like Princess Sultana, continue to push for change.
This book made me realize what the women of Saudi Arabia have to endure. Despite all the hardships they are faced with, many, like Princess Sultana, continue to push for change.
July 14, 2021
Really enjoyed the earlier books in this series however this one was pretty repetitive and historical. Kind of felt like it was “squeezed out” as though the author didn’t have much to work with or it was rushed.
August 25, 2021
Osittain suomalaiseen korvaan vähän kummallinen yhdistelmä rajatonta antaumuksellista uskoa kuningaskuntaan ja oman maahan ylivertaisuuteen ja todella surkeita naiskohtaloita ympäri Lähi-itää ja erityisesti Saudi-Arabiaa.
February 20, 2023
The other books in the series focused on the plight of women in the kingdom and how they are affected while this on just seemed to be about the princess and her feelings on matters as a result it was really boring and not as interesting as the previous installments
December 18, 2023
I’m so enthralled by all Jean Sasson has written so far, I am disheartened that Saudi Arabia has not come further in regard to rights for their women and that abuses against their women is still heavily prevalent. I hope to read more about changes being made.
June 18, 2024
My major takeaway from this book is how much Princess Sultana has grown and matured over the years, having read the earlier books where she was younger. The series is an intimate dive into to her psyche and an edifying process to evolve together.
November 25, 2018
The book was unlike its prequels. This installment was extremely boring and political.
January 21, 2019
Always interesting to read about current events in Saudi Arabia. I have read every book in this series and although this was not my favourite, it was still interesting
April 9, 2020
It's alright.
Read
December 5, 2020enjoy capsule histories in appendices the most
January 4, 2021
Enjoyed the previous books more.
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