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Is it the people who give birth to you, raise you, support you, or simply love you? This question is at the heart of Karman's young life as a goat herder in rural Afghanistan. Together with his brother Malek, his sister Elaha, and his struggling parents, Karman and his family make their way through the perils of their country, enduring hardship and overcoming countless obstacles.

From Iran on the west to Pakistan in the east, Afghanistan is wedged in indecisiveness. Kamran searches for his real parents, Elaha searches for a life where a woman can love how she chooses, and Malek searches for a new order in his homeland, one where freedom determines your destiny. Each makes their own decisions, and their futures are carved out of a land of fortitude and hope.

Based on a true story, Defending Hope is a remarkably engaging book that takes place against a background of war and strife, with characters who are determined to build a brighter future for Afghanistan.