The Review

“Sparks like Stars” by Nadia Hashimi is a poignant and compelling tale that spans several decades and takes readers on an emotional journey. The book is divided into two halves, but follows the same protagonist Sitara Zamani, the daughter of a prominent politician. Starting in Kabul, Afghanistan, in 1978, a ten-year-old Sitara’s life is shattered when her entire family is assassinated during a Soviet-backed coup. She is the sole survivor and is smuggled out of the palace to safety with the assistance of a palace soldier. Passed off to a female American diplomat, Sitara, now known as Aryana Shepherd, is smuggled out of the country and rebuilds her life in the United States.

The first half of the book, set in Afghanistan, beautifully captures the rich cultural atmosphere of Kabul in the 1970s. Kabul is a thriving cosmopolitan, and ideal tourist destination. The author’s vivid descriptions and attention to detail create a sense of authenticity that draws readers into the story. The character of Sitara is relatable and courageous protagonist, and her experiences during the coup are heartbreaking yet captivating. As the Kabul she knew changes practically overnight, it is easy to empathize with her.

In the second half of the book, Sitara, now known as Aryana Shepherd, as an accomplished oncology surgeon in New York. The past catches up with her when an elderly patient appears, the soldier that got her out of Arg, triggering a desire for answers and possibly revenge. The exploration of Aryana’s journey to confront her past and find closure is poignant and thought-provoking.

The character development in “Sparks like Stars” is commendable, with Sitara/Aryana being a protagonist worth rooting for. Her journey from a traumatized young girl to a strong and accomplished woman is inspiring. The relationships she forms along the way, especially with the guard who saved her life, add depth and complexity to the story.

The book skillfully weaves fact and fiction, providing insights into Afghanistan’s history and culture during significant periods. The writing style is beauty and its ability to evoke strong emotions. The book delves into themes of loss, grief, trauma, and the search for identity, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma. I specifically like how Nadia Hashimi’s empathized the effect the interference of the “first and second world” had on Afghanistan.

Overall, “Sparks like Stars” is a compelling blend of fact and fiction that sheds light on Afghanistan’s history and the lasting effects of trauma. The story’s strength lies in its exploration of resilience, loss, and the search for identity. Fans of historical fiction and those interested in Afghanistan’s complex past will find this book captivating and worth reading.

I give 4 out of 5 stars!

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“Sparks like Stars” by Nadia Hashimi is a poignant and compelling blend of fact and fiction that takes readers on an emotional journey spanning decades. The book beautifully captures the rich cultural atmosphere of Kabul in the 1970s and explores the profound impact of a Soviet-backed coup on the protagonist, Sitara Zamani. The character development is commendable, as Sitara transforms from a traumatized young girl to a strong and accomplished woman. The exploration of her journey to confront her past and find closure is thought-provoking. The book skillfully weaves together themes of loss, grief, trauma, and the search for identity, offering valuable insights into Afghanistan’s history and culture. “Sparks like Stars” is a compelling and captivating read, particularly for fans of historical fiction and those interested in Afghanistan’s complex past.