"The Underground Girls of Kabul" by Jenny Nordberg explores the unique cultural practice in Afghanistan where girls are disguised as boys, known as "bacha posh." This phenomenon arises from the country's patriarchal society that values male children more highly than females. To alleviate the burden of having only daughters, some families choose to raise girls as boys, providing them with more freedom and opportunities. This societal pressure impacts the lives of these girls, who navigate complex identities and face challenges of returning to their female roles when they mature. Nordberg's investigation includes poignant personal stories of women who lived as bacha posh and how these experiences shaped their perceptions of gender and identity. Through interviews and narratives, the book sheds light on the struggles these girls face, as well as their resilience in a conservative culture. The author illustrates the stark differences in opportunities between genders and how these disguises can offer a glimpse of liberation in an oppressive environment. The book ultimately raises critical questions about gender roles, identity, and the societal expectations placed on women in Afghanistan. It provides a nuanced understanding of the interplay between cultural practices and the desire for autonomy. "The Underground Girls of Kabul" serves as an eye-opening exploration of women's lives in a context often shrouded in silence, encouraging readers to reflect on broader issues of gender inequality worldwide.