by Khaled Hosseini
People's lives tormented and destroyed under the thumb of power - the power of money, an antiquated social system or guns and rockets. Mariam, born out of wedlock, is condemned to a life at the lowest bottom, kicked like dirt. Leila, born into aspiring middle class, is growing towards a life of happiness and great promise. This ends in the crossfire of Afghanistan's warlords. In their struggle for power homes and lives are turned into rubble.
Leila ends up next to Mariam as second wife to Rasheed, a malicious and violent character. Their lives spiral downwards into debasement and brutality. Afghanistan's destruction by warring sections and the Taliban is mirrored by this domestic violence.
Yet, among all the destruction hope remains, the knowledge of something better, of a thousand splendid suns. And a love strong enough to sacrifice your own life.
The lack of artfulness gives this book an excruciating honesty. It sometimes overpowered me and I had to interrupt reading. It's the type of book you finish with the intention to change your life.
Excellent!
Reviewed by Klaus Jaritz
Leila ends up next to Mariam as second wife to Rasheed, a malicious and violent character. Their lives spiral downwards into debasement and brutality. Afghanistan's destruction by warring sections and the Taliban is mirrored by this domestic violence.
Yet, among all the destruction hope remains, the knowledge of something better, of a thousand splendid suns. And a love strong enough to sacrifice your own life.
The lack of artfulness gives this book an excruciating honesty. It sometimes overpowered me and I had to interrupt reading. It's the type of book you finish with the intention to change your life.
Excellent!
Reviewed by Klaus Jaritz
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