A Thousand Splendid Suns

by Khaled Hosseini

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a novel penned by the critically acclaimed author Khaled Hosseini. Following the overwhelming success of his debut novel, The Kite Runner, Hosseini crafts yet another poignant tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of Afghanistan's history over three decades, from the Soviet invasion to the rise of the Taliban.

This evocative novel offers readers an intimate look into the intricate world of Afghan women, their enduring spirit, and the myriad challenges they face. Purchase all three masterful books by Khaled Hosseini, including The Kite Runner, And the Mountains Echoed, and A Thousand Splendid Suns with the Khaled Hosseini 3 Book Collection now in stock and available at Books2Door.

Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns is more than just a novel; it's a deeply emotional journey into the lives of its protagonists, Mariam and Laila, two women from different backgrounds and generations who share a common, harrowing destiny. The narrative seamlessly weaves historical events, cultural nuances, and profound human connections, culminating in a tapestry that captures the very essence of Afghanistan and its people.

The book’s title, inspired by the 17th-century Persian poet Saib Tabrizi's ode to Kabul, perfectly encapsulates the dual nature of the story—radiance amidst tragedy. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of Afghanistan's history, this story delves deep into the lives of its citizens, particularly its women. The harrowing account unfolds in the capital city of Kabul, which serves as both a place of heartache and a sanctuary of memories for the characters.

Through its 400+ pages, the novel bears witness to 30 years of Afghanistan’s history, making it not only a compelling narrative but also a cultural document.

About the Book

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a gripping story set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s turbulent history, spanning from the Soviet invasion to the rise of the Taliban. The novel focuses on the intertwined lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, who end up married to the same abusive man, Rasheed.

Mariam is an illegitimate child, the result of a relationship between a maid and her wealthy employer. Living a life marred by shame and isolation, she is married off at a young age to Rasheed, a shoemaker in Kabul. Over the years, Mariam's inability to bear children turns her into a target of Rasheed's physical and emotional abuse.

On the other hand, Laila was born into an educated family. Her life takes a disastrous turn when her parents are killed during the civil conflict, and she's left alone to fend for herself. Pregnant and vulnerable, she's taken in by Rasheed, ostensibly for protection but essentially to serve as a younger, more fertile wife. Rasheed's cruelty doesn't discriminate; Laila becomes another victim of his abusive behaviour.

Mariam and Laila initially see each other as rivals, but their shared suffering at the hands of Rasheed fosters a deep bond between them. This unlikely friendship evolves into a sisterly love, offering both women comfort and strength. Mariam becomes a surrogate mother to Laila's children, Aziza and Zalmai, and together they form a makeshift family.

As the story unfolds, Afghanistan falls under the grip of the Taliban, whose oppressive regime brings added hardships into the household. The family suffers from poverty, public humiliation, and the constant threat of violence. When Rasheed’s behaviour turns increasingly volatile and dangerous, the two