Rated of 5
by Diane Funny but long
Here's a treat for fans of political satire, and for once the subject is not the United States government. Hanif has a great time with the political, cultural, and religious underpinnings of Pakistan. For the first half of the book I was entranced. But after a while it's like a joke that's maybe gone on a bit long. Still recommended for the right reader, however.
Rated of 5
by Brenda Too many mangoes, not enough jam
I had a hard time getting into this book. I'm not sure exactly why, I can't criticize the writing, but I felt like I was always trying to catch up with the author. There were so many characters and plots, I had a hard time keeping everyone straight. I felt like things were happening that had hidden meanings that should be obvious to me, but weren't really. I think someone with a military background and more familiarity with Pakistani culture and history may get more out of it. It wasn't a bad read after I got past the first 100 pages and started getting a feel for the "voice" of the author, but I wouldn't put it on my "must read" list for anyone.
Rated of 5
by Betty-Anne Well worth the read
While it might help, you don’t really need to know about Pakistan’s history to really enjoy this book. Mohammed Hanif has the ability to make you care about varied characters, even the purported villains.
Ali Shigri is the main character, but the book is written from the points of view of multiple characters, which removes it from a narrow tale about revenge, into a much broader story encompassing as many concerns as there are characters.
I found that I was eager to get to each chapter to see what new layer would be revealed about the story. Additionally, Hanif’s sardonic humor actually had me laughing out loud. I am generally not fond of political novels, but if more were as well written as this, I’d probably have to change my mind.
I quite recommend this book
Rated of 5
by Theresa strong beginning
I found this book very engaging and interesting at the start. The main character drew me in initially with his direct, seemingly naive approach to his circumstances. But, as the story progressed, I found myself less and less interested in him or the other characters. I found the story interesting, but not strong enough to carry the many characters.
Rated of 5
by William Death to a Dictator
Interesting cast of characters. Strong plot line provides imaginary circumstances and conspiracies that lead to the killing of a dictator in Pakistan. Hanif's characterizations of martinets and over-the-top intelligence officers are comedic and also deadly serious. There is an uneven quality in this debut novel but the story becomes stronger near the end of the book. Read as dark comedy, political thriller, and as a fable for our contemporary world.
Rated of 5
by Deanna Exploding Mangoes, Indeed!
Mohammed Hanif has written an extremely seductive yet disturbing tale of love and revenge that takes place in Pakistan about the time that the Russians are leaving, the government is in turmoil, and a young, Pakistani pilot has found his father hanging from a fan-an apparent suicide.
Ali Shigri's quest for vengeance is both horrific and darkly humorous. Read carefully - the plot is very convoluted! The characters seem so "Americanized" that you almost forget this is set in a war torn Pakistan. This is definitely not a Kite Runner type of novel that will leave you feeling you have learned about a culture distinct from your own. But in the end, aren't we all the same? This first novel is highly entertaining, fast paced, and definitely worth reading!
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