BREAKING BARRIERS

A debut author surveys the struggles and promises of his native Pakistan.

“Pakistan was born from a dream,” writes Kamal in the opening chapter, highlighting the nation’s notional identity as a place “where Muslims could thrive in prosperity and equality,” serving as “a model of justice and progress for the world.” The book blends sociopolitical commentary on the current state of Pakistan with the author’s own history, offering a grassroots perspective on Pakistan’s difficulties and aspirations. Born in Karachi to a middle-class family, the author obtained an undergraduate degree in Pakistan before moving to the United States to pursue an advanced degree. He would ultimately raise a family and build a successful business in the U.S. While appreciating his “adopted home,” Kamal still holds on to the dream of Pakistan’s founders and his belief in the nation’s “vibrant culture, remarkable resilience, and inspiring heroes.” He does not shy away from the challenges Pakistan faces, from bureaucratic inefficiency and corruption to economic and educational inequality, while maintaining hope for its future. He notes, for instance, that more than 60% of the nation’s population is composed of youth who represent “an untapped wellspring of energy and innovation.” Paying close attention to marginalized groups, the author’s nuanced analysis underscores discrimination against gay and transgender persons while also celebrating positive developments, such as Pakistan’s 2018 Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, which guarantees trans citizens the right to change their gender on official records and equal access to education and public spaces. Combining his own observations with impressive research (backed by more than 350 footnotes), Kamal delivers an in-depth portrayal of the Asian nation. His critical takes do not spare inept officials, but they are tempered by the author’s fundamental belief in the goodness of average Pakistani citizens. Written in an accessible prose style, the book provides ample historical and cultural context for readers unacquainted with the intricacies of Pakistani history and culture, making it an effective primer.

A well-researched, nuanced analysis of Pakistan’s recent history and promising future.