The main focus of this novel is the flight of Fereiba and her three children from Afghanistan to England. However, along the way, her teenage son, Saleem, becomes separated from the rest of the family. So begins his coming of age story. The plight of refugees of all ages and nationalities is laid bare, and we see both the humanity and inhumanity of man. My biggest criticism was the ending, which left me worrying about the fates of the family and some of those we met along the way. A good read and timely discussion topic for book clubs.

This is the question on the minds of all the citizens of Stanley, a small village in the Falkland Islands. The landscape, barren and rough, is wonderfully described in this great read. Ms. Bolton has created characters that we understand and care about. The well told story has many sharp curves and blind alleys. You won't regret picking up this fairly quick read.