A Bridge from Darkness to Light

Thirteen Young Photographers Explore Their Afghanistan

In 2006, Texas historian and photographer Bill Wright traveled to Afghanistan to teach a course—sponsored by the Afghan NGO ASCHIANA, which seeks to support working children and their families—on digital photography to young Afghans living in Kabul. In this illuminating, visually captivating book, Wright records his personal journey and experiences with a group of students ranging from ages 12 to the early 20s. The students’ photographs capture daily life in the Afghan capital, from traditional street markets to a modern shipping center, from shepherds to musicians to laborers, from infants to the elderly. As they record their world, these junior photographers provide a poignant portrait of what life is like for young people in a war zone, and demonstrate an unquenchable talent and spirit.