Hosseini, Khaled. A Thousand Splendid Suns. New York: Riverhead Books, 2007. Print.
The novel A Thousand Splendid Suns written by Khaled Housseini gives an up close and personal look at what life may be like for the women in Afghanistan. The main theme of the book focuses on the relationships between women visiting the many harsh struggles two central characters overcome throughout their development into womanhood. It begins telling the story of Mariam who after a great disappointment from her father, witnesses the scene of her mother's suicide. She marries into an abusive relationship and experiences a number of miscarried pregnancies. The story continues with the tragic death of Laila's parents. This lands her into a deceptive and barbaric marriage. After a rocky beginning, Mariam and Laila's relationship blossoms into a deep sisterly love. They find peace and small pleasures in each other's company despite their dismal circumstances. After years of enduring harsh and cruel treatment from their husband, Mariam find self-content and peace in front of a firing squad while Laila reconnects with her childhood swain.
The characters in this novel have to overcome many overwhelming struggles, especially the women. Mariam displayed courage as a young teen ignoring her mother's plea to not leave their home in pursuit of her father. Unfortunately, this quest ends in disappointment for her and ultimately leads her into a prearranged, unwanted marriage. Although she suffered many years of verbal and physical abuse from her husband, her inner courageous self never died. It was through this display of courage and strong will that any reader could grow to admire her. Laila's love and commitment for her daughter stimulated her to persevere despite having to place her daughter in an orphanage. In addition, her love for Tariq never yielded despite the fact she thought he was dead. The sheer perseverance displayed by the two woman ultimately led to Miriam's spiritual freedom and Laila's joyful reunion with her childhood beau.