"The sound of birdsong never changes. Mustafa told me this many years ago. And whenever the bombs were silent, the birds came out to sing."
I absolutely adored this book. It follows the journey of Nuri and Afra across Europe as they flee their beloved home in Aleppo after it is no longer safe for them to stay. Written in a 'then and now' style, the author utilises clever word play in transitioning between present day, and the retelling of their journey. Amidst horror and atrocity there are moments of tenderness and compassion. Heartbreak is paired with hope, fear with love.
One of the most compelling factors of this novel is that whilst it is a work of fiction, it is based on fact. Such a beautiful yet horrifying insight into the refugee and asylum crisis, and the terrifying decisions human beings are forced to make in the name of their own safety. These are the stories the media needs to tell. This is the side of the adversity we need to hear about. Everyone should read this story, I can only hope that it would illicit some compassion from society.
For anyone who loved the Kite Runner, or I Am Malala, this is for you.
I absolutely adored this book. It follows the journey of Nuri and Afra across Europe as they flee their beloved home in Aleppo after it is no longer safe for them to stay. Written in a 'then and now' style, the author utilises clever word play in transitioning between present day, and the retelling of their journey. Amidst horror and atrocity there are moments of tenderness and compassion. Heartbreak is paired with hope, fear with love.
One of the most compelling factors of this novel is that whilst it is a work of fiction, it is based on fact. Such a beautiful yet horrifying insight into the refugee and asylum crisis, and the terrifying decisions human beings are forced to make in the name of their own safety. These are the stories the media needs to tell. This is the side of the adversity we need to hear about. Everyone should read this story, I can only hope that it would illicit some compassion from society.
For anyone who loved the Kite Runner, or I Am Malala, this is for you.