Trearddur Bay WI has started a Book Club, and of course I had to join. At our branch meeting in April, I was given a copy of A Thousand Splendid Suns in paperback from the local library. It’s completely different from anything I’ve read before or would choose to read.
The story spans the years of two young girls lives in Afghanistan, including when the Talban arrive and takes over. The latter gave me a sense of horror especially when I read their list of rules. Family growing up in a war zone and the poverty they endured was heartbreaking. This story plays hard in yours emotions. Worst of it, it is based on truth.
Mariam and Laila, are the focus of this story. As we watch them grow, their lives are truly emotional and at times difficult to read. The full horror of life in a country we know little about is laid bare.
As I said earlier, it’s not a story I would have chosen to read, and having read it, has that changed? No. It was enlightening and to some extent educational. It’s certainly a story that will stay with me, but for all the wrong reasons.
Overall, it is well written and I can see why it’s an award winner. It has over 50k reviews and the majority are good. Whether it’s enjoyable, is down to personal preferences. I can’t fault the storyline, it’s compelling, and thought provoking. Neither can I give it less than 4 stars. If you want a an interesting read, then this is for you.
Other Books in the Series
Karen J. Mossman - World of Stories 
Funnily enough our library book club met this morning and we have just read The Kite Runner. We all felt we knew more about Afghanistan, but parts were hard to read. It comes as a surprise that there could have been good times in the past Kabul, though of course not all would have been enjoying them. Now the book are seen through the current awful situation.
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It’s certainly enlightening . I’ve heard of The Kite Runner, but never read it, but now imagine it’s along the same vein. Thanks for commenting.
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I loved this book as well as all of his books. The only way we will understand other cultures and situations is to read books like this. Although, I admit its not always an easy read. Fortunately we can mix up our reading. A good review.
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