Sri Lanka boy
Photo: Thatcher Cook for Mercy Corps

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana

In all corners of the globe, women work tirelessly — against incredible odds — to build better lives for their families. Nowhere is this more true than in Afghanistan. Gayle Tzemach Lemmon’s new book The Dressmaker of Khair Khana tells the inspiring story of a young woman who became an unlikely entrepreneur and breadwinner for her family under the Taliban. The book demonstrates the incredible power of women to transform their communities – something that Mercy Corps works tirelessly to support in nearly 40 countries.

Whether you join us for our virtual Field Briefing on May 6th or buy a copy of the book and download the free discussion guide, we hope you’ll learn more about how women are transforming their communities and how your support helps make their daily victories possible.

Listen to and Watch our Field Briefing with Gayle Tzemach Lemmon ›

In celebration of Mother's Day and mothers around the world, Gayle Tzemach Lemmon joined Mercy Corps supporters for a conversation about the power of women to transform their communities. Click here to listen to a recording of this virtual Field Briefing.

Author to speak at Mercy Corps in Portland May 4, 7pm ›

Hear writer Gayle Tzamach Lemmon talk about her newly released and highly acclaimed book, The Dressmaker of Khair Khana: Five Sisters, One Remarkable Family, and the Woman Who Risked Everything to Keep Them Safe.

Mercy Corps in Afghanistan ›

Mercy Corps has been working alongside the indomitable Afghan people for more than 20 years, helping them build their businesses, improve their health, educate their children and participate more fully in civil society. This boy radiates the enthusiasm of participants at a field-based coaching session for community workers.

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana Discussion Guide ›

In honor of The Dressmaker of Khair Khana, Mercy Corps is pleased to present additional information on the book. Here you will learn more about the Dressmaker of Khair Khana and the provided questions for book clubs and reading groups will energize your meetings and and take your discussions to the next level.