A simple and absorbing narrative of the life and times of Shaista Suhrawardy Ikramullah. The account covers the days of the British Raj and its aftermath. Through the life of one individual, we witness the changes wrought through the influence of the West in many purdah-observing households. The book provides interesting glimpses into the past and recounts the social and political movement that brought about rapid change, dramatically exemplified by the entry of a lady brought up in purdah into parliament, the United Nations and the Foreign Service.