The Escape from Kabul

“The imperilled lives of Afghani female judges in the wake of the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, rescued by other female judges around the world, is one of tragedy, bravery and hope. Bartlett tells it fearlessly in this deeply moving book that takes the reader on an emotional journey from despair and terror to relief. She brings the wider history of Afghanistan to life through extensive interviews and human stories, confronting issues of corruption and brutality head-on, while weaving in a love and appreciation for the country. Her clarity of prose brings to life the chaos and desperation in Kabul as people tried to jump on those final planes out of the city.” Read more...

The Best Politics Books of 2026: The Orwell Prize for Political Writing

The judges of the 2026 Orwell Prize for Political Writing