Great Reads: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’ by Khaled Hosseini is the deeply moving story of two women living in Afghanistan from the 1970s to modern day.

This window into the history of Afghanistan is riddled with war and political turmoil, which consequently tears apart the lives of many. Afghanistan bears a seemingly endless burden in this novel, beginning with the invasion of the Soviets who gave way to the merciless Taliban, ending with the arrival of the Americans. Khaled Hosseini pays particular attention to the Taliban regime in this novel, and openly displays its horrific consequences for the women subjected to it.

‘…"This hospital no longer treats women”, the guard barked. He was standing at the top of the stairs, looking down icily on the crowd gathered in front of Malalai Hospital…’

Hosseini concisely captures the abrupt cruelty of the Taliban through his use of language. The suffering of women is also demonstrated, as they are denied their human right to receive adequate medical care.

Although this novel features the wider political and social context of Afghanistan, it is also focused on the experiences of Miriam and Laila. A cruel twist of fate brings these two women together, and they become inseparable through their burning desire to survive. Hosseini beautifully captures the glory of humanity; throughout all the bloodshed and hatred, love and friendship can prevail.

‘…like a rock in a riverbed, enduring without complaint, her grace not sullied but shaped by the turbulence that washes over her. Already Laila sees something behind the young girl’s eyes, something deep in her core, that neither Rasheed or the Taliban will be able to break…’

This quote represents the essence of the novel; the way that no amount of hatred or force can crush the desire to bring a little warmth and kindness into a seemingly bleak existence. Hosseini could be seen to present the argument that these extremist regimes cannot succeed in winning hearts and minds of all the people, even if their obedience is forced.

The imagery of the title is repeated as a theme throughout the novel, with magical effect. It is used to describe the stunning landscapes, and a concluding quote in the novel asserts how the human soul has the ability to shine like "A Thousand Splendid Suns".

Overall this is a phenomenal novel which will leave you deeply moved; its sense of hope is truly uplifting. Not an easy read, but well worth the effort; this novel certainly produces enough literary sunshine to justify its title.

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