Book Review - The Secret Sky: A Novel of Forbidden Love in Afghanistan

The Secret Sky: A Novel of Forbidden Love in Afghanistan by Atia Abawi

5 Stars!  A must read!  Unforgettable!  Shocking! 

Summary by Goodreads: 

Goodreads.com

A novel of love during a time of war by NBC's Afghanistan correspondent.

Set in present-day Afghanistan, this is the story of two teenagers, one Pashtun and one Hazara, who must fight against their culture, their tradition, their families, and the Taliban to stay together. Told in three rotating perspectives—the two teens and another boy in the village who turns them in to the local Taliban—this novel depicts both the violent realities of living in Afghanistan, as well as the beauty of the land and the cultures there. And it shows that love can bloom in even the darkest of places.

This is an absolute must read not just for teens but for anyone who has lived during the time of America's War in Afghanistan.
"[The Secret Sky is] a tale of the indomitable Afghan spirit of hope and love. Among the many novels set in Afghanistan for young people or for adults, The Secret Sky stands alone. Unputdownable. Unforgettable." –Trent Reedy, author of Words in the Dust

I finally had a moment to sit down and really think about The Secret Sky.  I finished it a few days ago and haven't been able to put into words how important this story was to read.  This is about more than just a love story.  Yes, there is love, but it is also about threats, mental and physical abuse, and murder.  What drives this story are the consequences and the realities that people face in Afghanistan for choosing to make their own path instead of following cultural, religious, and political beliefs. Afghanistan is a country divided by those who believe in traditions of past and those who want to make something better with their lives.  In many villages, girls are still not allowed to attend school, must stay covered in their homes and in separate rooms from the men, and are told who they will marry.  The Taliban has spread into Islamic religious schools and are brainwashing young boys, turning them into killers.  Samiullah and Fatima are just an example of the real world:  two young adults trying to find their way through these political, cultural, and religious traditions that are set up to tear them apart.

Honestly, I considered this book one of my "stretch" books this fall.  I have not been very "worldy" in terms of books I choose, but I am so grateful that I came across this story.  I will never forget these characters and how they stayed hopeful and in love even when faced with horrific darkness in their lives.