A Thousand Splendid Suns. *****

by Khaled Hosseini.

Well, what a read this was. I've never read a book quite like this.

It is set in Kabul, Afghanistan and is set around the wars raging out there for the last 30 years. There are two heroines in the book, both being introduced as children. Laila and Mariam.

Although there are horrors and atrocities written about on nearly every page, gut wrenching to read, it is none the less, a beautifully written book and a fabulous tale of how people overcome hardship and adversity.

Hosseini goes into great detail when writing about bodies been blown to pieces and buildings collapsing. He is also is very detailed when writing about the personal beatings of the heroines, and yet, I still found I couldn't put this book down. When, Mariam "For one last time, did as she was told" there were tears in my eyes.

Without going into politics here, I have always been adamant that we shouldn't be involved in other peoples wars, but this book has made me seriously rethink my opinion on Afghanistan. Those people really need help to be freed from the regime they're living under so I'm a little torn now. On the fence, as they say.

I can honestly say that I don't think a book has ever affected me the way this one has done and I shall no doubt read it again at some time.

Hosseini is a beautiful, flowing writer that somehow brings beauty into the worst possible things.

Five stars from me.

i felt just the same as you when i read it lorraine , beautifully written , i knew youd enjoy it .

That is on my to 'definately read list' I'm reading Dawn French's book at the moment, trouble is it's taking me ages as I'm hooked to playing my DS at my normal reading time instead at the moment.

Well Lorraine, defo one I shall try and get from the library - I have made a note of it for Friday. Thanks for the review.

lorraine you could send my copy on to patty if you like

not my thing, but i bet if i started it..i would be as hooked as you.

thanks for sharing your views, its something i love, i will be joining a reading group when i retire..i love hearing other people talking about books they have read.

Oh Lorraine/Kim that would be ace if you could please. I will send you the postage of course.

OK, Patty.
No postage required. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!

Well thank you kindly .... what ARE you like with regard to the postage though!!! Norty friend!!!

I wish I had time to read as much as I used to.

Patty wrote:Well thank you kindly .... what ARE you like with regard to the postage though!!! Norty friend!!!

Well, not really norty this time, hun because if you don't mind, I'd like it back when you've finished. I've promised Ruth a read and I'd like to read it again too.

Bobs, awwwwwwwwww. Never mind, hun. Maybe one day soon, you'll find the time again and more time for your crafting and swaps too.