cover image Caught in the Crossfire

Caught in the Crossfire

Jan Goodwin. Dutton Books, $18.95 (330pp) ISBN 978-0-525-24493-6

Disguised as an Afghan Mujahideen, Goodwin, executive editor of Ladies Home Journal, shared the dangers and hardships of life in Afghanistan for three months in 1985. While in Soviet-held Kabul on a British passport, she observed the Sovietization of the people, especially the children. This is a rare account of a war from which journalists are banned, a riveting and inspiring chronicle of heroic resistance against superior arms in a genocidal conflict waged with carpet bombing, chemical weapons and massacres. Having witnessed atrocities, the author denounces what she avers is American ambivalence toward the Afghans. Her superb reportage and powerful appeal on their behalf is enhanced by the personal stories Afghans related to her. Photos not seen by PW. Major ad/promo; author tour. (March 19)