So many books . . .

Debbie Rodriguez went to Afghanistan in 2001 originally as part of a humanitarian group. In Kabul she soon became sought after for her hairdressing background, which gave her the idea of opening a beauty school for local women whose new skills would enable them to earn additional income for their families. The struggle to find funding for the school, in addition to all of the cultural and political hoops to jump through in Afghanistan itself make for a fascinating story. At the end I found myself wanting to know more about what happened afterward, about Debbie’s Afghan husband, their life there, etc.

That said, I fervently regret reading a more recent news article before writing my review as it has dampened my enthusiasm for the book somewhat. As of June 2007, Debbie has apparently left Afghanistan and her husband for good, and many of her former students fear for their lives since the book’s publication. It was a great story, but I now wonder if some of the book’s resolutions weren’t quite as rosy as suggested.

Rating: 5/5 Further reading: NPR article

Lamb is an entertaining, tongue-in-cheek depiction of the life of Jesus, as told through the eyes of his best friend Levi (Biff). More than merely a retelling, it fills in the missing years of Jesus’ life between birth and messiahhood. Who knew he’d spent time studying in India and China? All your favorite Holy Family members, disciples and apostles make appearances, including Mary Magdalene (Maggie). It didn't quite live up to my lofty expectations -- i.e. I didn't fall out of bed laughing -- but great fun for anyone with a sense of humor, regardless of beliefs.

Rating: 3/5 Further reading: Moore's homepage Christopher Moore (wiki)

 

Amir is the privileged boy, living in a large home in a wealthy area of Kabul, Afghanistan. Hassan is his servant and constant companion although, separated by social class and cultural stigma, they can never truly be friends. When the Afghan Civil War begins, it signals tremendous changes – though in very, very different ways, neither of their lives will ever be the same.

I fully expected to be blown away by this book given all the hype surrounding it in the years since publication. The first half was riveting, but it seemed to lose some momentum later on. I’d still heartily recommend it, especially for the presentation of Afghani culture and the fascinating competitive kite-flying events, something I’d never heard of before.

Rating: 4/5 Further reading: Hosseini's homepage Khaled Hosseini (wiki)