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  • Princess

  • A True Story of Life Behind the Veil in Saudi Arabia
  • By: Jean Sasson
  • Narrated by: Catherine Byers
  • Length: 7 hrs and 39 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (59 ratings)

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Princess cover art

Princess

By: Jean Sasson
Narrated by: Catherine Byers
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Publisher's Summary

Princess describes the life of Princess Sultana Al Sa'ud, a princess in the royal house of Saudi Arabia. Hidden behind her black veil, she is a prisoner, jailed by her father, her husband, and her country.

Sultana tells of appalling oppressions, everyday occurrences that in any other culture would be seen as shocking human rights violations: 13-year-old girls forced to marry men five times their age; young women killed by drowning, stoning, or isolation in the "women's room". Princess is a testimony to a woman of indomitable spirit and courage, and you will never forget her or her Muslim sisters.

A New York Times best-seller, Princess was named one of the 500 Great Books by Women Since 1300. It was also an Alternate Selection of the Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Club and a Reader's Digest Selection.

©2004 The Sasson Corporation (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

What listeners say about Princess

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

The story of a cultural hierarchy that retards and shackles half of its own people

Very interesting insight into the war against women in Saudi Arabia. The book illustrates a pervading culture of disrespect. An open disrespect of men for women, an undercurrent of disrespect of women for men, a universal disrespect for foreign workers and non-muslims.
While the story was both fascinating and depressing, I had to overcome the irritation of the ‘twangy’ narration style.

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2 people found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

fascinating but bad narration

the story is fascinating and well written however the narration is monotone and lacking emotion.

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1 person found this helpful

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Fascinating

Money isnt everything .. there has to be freedom, equality and respect. This book basically tells us that many men of Islamic Saudi choose to interpret the Koran to suit themselves at expense of their women. It's interesring ... often shocking and always sad. But changes have been happening since this was written..... slowly.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Great book, narration awful

The narration of this book was bland, monotonous and almost autonomous. Just awful! A shame, given how impactful the story is. As the sequels are narrated by the same woman I will not be purchasing those, regardless that I am very curious to continue the story.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Sunrise

What a incredible story and what a strong and brave woman. Beautifully narrated, very engaging.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Great story.

I loved this book. I had no idea of the hardships Saudi women endure. Very sad.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Harsh Reality of a Womens life in Saudi

Interesting read. Left hanging at the end somewhat. Story tempered somewhat by the fact that princess Sultana has access to incredible wealth however brings meaning to the concept that money cant buy happiness

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Powerful!!

This is one of the most powerful, fascinating and beautifully written books I have ever read/listened to in my life. This book gives you a personal and in depth insight into the world of a Saudi Arabian princess, & also a look into a world that is completely dominated by men and religion. The story is touching and complex a very interesting read from start to finish.

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Heart wrenching true story

I read this book 10 years ago and it was such an eye opener to the ways of another country. This book was so good I wanted to listen to it as well. As an Australian this book and many others have opened my eyes to how females are treated in countries where Muslim is their dominate religion. It's a must read for everyone!

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