I’ve finished reading A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini, a book set in Afghanistan’s turbulent past.  The book spans the time periods of monarchy, communist occupation, warlords, the Taliban, and American coalition occupation.

Following the lives of two young women, the book is a window into the staggering unbalance between women and men in Afghanistan.  We are introduced to the unfairness and, at times, brutality of being a woman in this country.  The novel is shocking and, in parts, difficult to read.

Among the disaster of war and the punishment of gender inequality, arises a beautiful story of women seeking a life of safety, happiness, and love.  One finds their heart bleeding for these characters, wishing along with them that one day they will find the lives they seek.

Highly recommended.