A thousand splendid suns - Khaled Hosseini

A heart rendering and emotionally gripping novel that delves into the lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives become intertwined amid the tumultuous backdrop of Afghanistan's history, spanning from the Soviet invasion to the Taliban regime.

The book masterfully intersperses together the personal stories of Mariam and Laila, showcasing their resilience, courage, and the profound bond that develops between them amidst the challenges they face. Hosseini's storytelling mastery vividly portrays the harsh realities of life for Afghan women, addressing themes of oppression, sacrifice, survival, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

The narrative captures the brutality and hardships faced by women in a war-torn society while also celebrating moments of hope, resilience, and solidarity. Hosseini's evocative prose evokes a range of emotions, from heartache and despair to moments of compassion and love.

The characters are intricately developed, allowing readers to empathize deeply with their struggles and triumphs. The book's emotional depth and powerful storytelling shed light on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

It is a moving and powerful narrative that sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of Afghan women, offering a compelling and sorrowful portrayal of their strength, endurance, and the enduring power of hope and friendship amid challenging circumstances.

Some powerful quotes that I noted

1. "Of all the hardships a person had to face, none was more punishing than the simple act of waiting."
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3. "Like a compass needle that points north, a man's accusing finger always finds a woman."
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5. "One could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs, or the thousand splendid suns that hide behind her walls."
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7. "She remembered Nana saying once that each snowflake was a sigh heaved by an aggrieved woman somewhere in the world."
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10. "You see, some things I can teach you. Some you learn from books. But there are things that, well, you just have to see and feel."
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12. "Miriam wished for so much in those final moments. Yet as she closed her eyes, it was not regret any longer but a sensation of abundant peace that washed over her."
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14. "Laila wondered if this was what hope felt like, a tingling in the chest, a catch in the breath, a hollow feeling around the gut, like a flare of warmth under the skin."