A Thousand Splendid Suns

‘'Learn this now and learn it well, my daughter. Like a compass needle that points north, a man's accusing finger always finds a woman. Always.''

‘'This is what it means to be a woman in this world.''

It is difficult, so difficult to read a book you don't want to touch. A book that gnaws at your heart and spits out the pieces with glee. Because even though you know the truth, you don't want to face it. You are not ready, you are not prepared. You refuse to ‘'live'' in a world that jumps from the pages, so eloquently depicted, so horrifying and tangible. You refuse to believe that there are still parts in the world where women's value is lower than a speck of dust, a drop of urine. You refuse to face the reality of a world where Rasheeds and Jalils exist instead of being torn apart and thrown to the dogs.

Words are cheap when it comes to this novel. Every literary remark is void and pretentious. And the road is still too long. This is living Hell...

‘'Where I come from, one wrong look, one improper word, and blood is spilled. Where I come from, a woman's face is her husband's business only.''

‘'You will not, under any circumstances, show your face. You will cover with burqua when outside. If you do not, you will be severely beaten.Cosmetics are forbidden. Jewellery is forbidden.You will not wear charming clothes.You will not speak unless spoken to.You will not make eye contact with men.You will not laugh in public. If you do, you will be beaten.You will not paint your nails. If you do, you will lose a finger.Girls are forbidden from attending school. All schools for girls will be closed immediately.Women are forbidden from working.If you are found guilty of adultery, you will be stoned to death.Listen. Listen well. Obey. Allah-u-akbar''

Disclaimer: I am not a follower of political correctness or thought-guidelines. No one, NO ONE will dictate what I will believe and what I will write.

My reviews can also be found on https://theopinionatedreaderblog.wordpress.com/