Book Review – “And the mountains echoed” by Khalid Hossini

The Kite runner famed Khalid Hossini launched his much awaited third book in July, 2013. His first two books “The Kite runner” and “The thousand splendid suns” were critically acclaimed across the globe as they narrated stories of lives from Afghanistan during Taliban.

The third book after a long break is another splendid read by the author.

Stories that weave through different nations and different decades leave you wanting for more. Story of siblings who are separated in childhood and finally meet in old age, along with story of all those people who touch their lives sounds confusing but has been managed well. The story moves with each new plot, either starting or ending in Kabul, travels to Paris, Greece, US, Pakistan and imaginary town of Shahdbagh.

Each character lives it small part, narrating its part, most of the story written in first person. Weaving a story with so many characters and leading each story to an end is a tactful task, which Hossini has superbly achieved.

I pick a few characters that I am likely to remember till a later date. Dr. Bashiri, a mid-age doctor who is compassionate towards a child when in Kabul but cannot provide for. Years later he meets the same child, who survived because of his brother’s help whom Bashiri didn’t appreciate.

Nila and Pari, complicated lives of a mother and a daughter, loving yet unforgiving, unable to disclose the adoption/purchase of the daughter.

I love the character of Nabi, he tells a wonderful story of his Sahab, Nila, Pari, Dr. Marco in his note and his letter.

The book briefly touches about Taliban or the war. It speaks more about people who migrated during that period, victims of poverty and domestic violence, people who left Afghanistan, people who worked in the country post war.

I rate the book 3.5 out of 5. Overall a good read for upcomng holidays.


The post is part of Day 1 of my latest project - 30days 30 books.
Read Day 2 post - Review of Fifty shades series