The Afghan Cinderella

The True Story of Princess Masuma and the Royal Family in 20th Century Afghanistan

De: Dr. Sherzai

Narrado por: Paul Richard Yarborough

Princess Masuma lived during the time when Afghanistan was ruled by kings. In this real-life Cinderella story, as relayed by her granddaughter Dr. Sherzai, Masuma is transformed from a simple Hazara orphan into a princess when she marries the son of Prince Regent Nasrullah Khan. Her fairy tale life is filled with both tragedy and triumph as political intrigue, rivalry, assassinations, and arrests directly affect her life, fortune, and family. Through Princess Masuma's epic tale, the listener learns of the complicated and dynamic history and culture of Afghanistan, from the 19th century to the end of the Mohammadzai dynasty and the rise of the Taliban.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2020 VIM Books Press (P)2021 VIM Books Press

Epic and Interesting

This is a story about Princess Masuma and her rise from a being a Hazara orphan into a princess. This is an epic story that covers the state of politics, assassinations, wealth, intrigue and more that threaten the royal family and Princess Masuma.

The author Dr. Sherzai is the granddaughter of Princess Masuma, and her depth of research is staggering. Not only do we have the story of Princess Masuma but the historical events during this time. This is not simply a “Cinderella” story but one with historical, religious, and cultural aspects of this era that reveals much about the lesser-known history of Afghanistan.
The creative weaving of the true story within the historical and cultural context is well done.

The narrator, Paul Richard Yarborough, as a voice actor is gifted in his performance. The words roll off his tongue with ease. He speaks clearly and with a steady cadence. There are subtle voice changes for the characters in their dialog but other than that his voice is steady and has some tonal inflections that keep the book flowing smoothly.

This is a creative fiction book based on the true events of Princess Masuma, it is interesting and enjoyable for those who appreciate historically driven stories.


The production and quality of this audiobook were perfect. I encountered no issues; it was clear and crisp with no background noises.

Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-bias, honest review.