With the world’s eyes now on Afghanistan, this novel takes on renewed significance. It’s a dramatic depiction of a country in transition and of women who live and die under Taliban rule. The story is tragic, heartbreaking and as “real” as a novel can be. Hosseini doesn’t need to indulge in artistic exaggeration to make his story compelling. Taliban reality is no less shocking than anything written here—and no less distressing. This makes the novel a valuable thing. It’s not only a first-rate story, it’s a good tool for anyone who wants to learn a little—or a lot—about a country with a complex and disastrous history. Reviewed on Aug. 19, 2021