Escape from Kabul (The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind)

The extraordinary true story of the Afghan women judges who fought for justice in the courtroom, and then fought to escape with their lives, from the bestselling British author

Across twenty years of U.S.-backed government, Afghan women obtained legal degrees, became judges, and set out to transform their country—tackling corruption, challenging traditional gender norms, and reducing horrifying levels of violence against women and children. These educated and powerful women led the mission to build Afghanistan as a modern democracy that respected the rule of law and human rights.

Their work, however, posed an existential threat to everything the Taliban believed in—and when the United States withdrew in August 2021, the women judges of Afghanistan faced mortal danger.

Escape from Kabul is the extraordinary, never-before-told story of their escape—with the assistance of the International Association of Women Judges—and the shocking fates of those who were unable to flee. Veteran journalist Karen Bartlett had unique access to many of the women involved, including those in exile and the judges still trapped in Afghanistan, as well as women judges from around the world who were vital to the escape effort.

Combining real-life drama with searing critique, Escape from Kabul is also an indictment of the West—which abandoned its allies and the cause of women’s rights. The book closes with the judges’ recommendations for their beloved country, in their own words.

This book title, Escape from Kabul (The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind), ISBN: 9781620978733, by Karen Bartlett, published by The New Press (August 5, 2025) is available in hardcover. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.

Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer Escape from Kabul (The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.

Prefer to work with a human being when you order Escape from Kabul (The Afghan Women Judges Who Fled the Taliban and Those They Left Behind) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!