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PLAYING CARDS IN CAIRO is a fly-on-the-wall account – like THE BOOKSELLER OF KABUL – of life (for western readers) in a strange and exotic environment. Hugh Miles lives in Cairo and is engaged to an Egyptian woman. Twice a week he plays cards with a small group of Arab, Muslim women and through this medium he explores their lives in modern Cairo, the greatest of Arab cities. It is a secretive, romantic, often deprived but always soulful existence for the women as they struggle with abusive husbands and philandering boyfriends. The book is a window onto a city – and a way of life – which is at a crucial juncture in its history. Hugh Miles, who knows the Arab world intimately, is the perfect guide.
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Reviews
** 'Playing Cards mixes personal vignettes with an informed overview of Egyptian politics, and although unflinching about Cairo's problems, Miles shows his affection for this great city of every page.
** 'An intriguing read and, as an introduction to Egyptian life, it's fascinating
** 'Behind the veil are the frustrations, fads, fashions and fallibilities familiar to women the world over. Miles is a loving listener, whose understanding of the Islamic world is sharpened by tea and sympathy
** 'Miles should be applauded for telling their stories so compellingly, and for giving us such a detailed insight into their everyday lives.