Sad, but true.

This book is disjointed at spots and doesn't connect you to the characters, BUT it does give a great snapshot of life in Afghanistan and the deprivation that the people there are living in. It is so sad. Our book club had a GREAT discussion because of this book. Some books that aren't the greastest literary-wise are still wonderful books for book club and this is one of them. Take notes while you read, because there are tons or places and people to keep track of.

Best of all worlds for Sultan the bookseller (and post cards)

Sultan does not like the Taliban, they burn books. He likes profit and does not approve of people who go to Mecca at great expense and thus hurt the bottom line. But he also would not like western civilization (fully implemented). The big profits from pirated books and post cards would end. Copyright laws properly enforced could drive him out of business (something that even the Taliban failed to do). And his family (especially the women) could fight his Taliban like power over them in the courts.

Wish I could visit

This book wasn't as good as I was expecting due to the rave reviews. But, it did a great job painting a picture of the place and time. Good character development and very timely. Wish it was a peaceful world as you want to visit this part of the world.