Hayat is a young Muslim stumbling his way through childhood. His mother is very unhappy in her marriage and homesick for Pakistan and for her best friend (Mina) in particular. Hayat's father, a respected neurosurgeon, has grown quite jaded regarding the Quran and all that it stands for. His drinking and infidelity acts as proof of his hatred for all things Islam, despite having been raised in the religion. After much cajoling from his wife, Hayat's father concedes to letting Mina come and live with them in America. Hayat is quite enamored with Mina and she begins to teach him about the Quran - developing a love for the teachings that Hayat's father cannot bear. We follow this family through Mina's journey of love and loss and Hayat's journey of learning some difficult life lessons. An interesting peak into the life of Muslims living in America and their search for community and tradition within it. (Jessica) It s a powerful book about child psychology, literal and strict interpretation of Holy Books and their consequences, religious intolerance and Muslim women conditions. I loved it and could not stop reading it. For all religious and not-religious to spread understanding, tolerance and peace. Mina escapes with his child from a difficult marriage in Pakistan. She joins her best friend's family living in the USA and starts a new life. She becomes very close and key person for the story-teller, Hayat, the 12-years old son of her friend. From her, Hayat will discover and learn the Koran and how to be a good Muslim. His actions will make the marriage and love between Mina and a Jewish doctor fail and will weight on his conscience until he, many years later, will confess his actions to Mina, just few weeks before her death.y
What do You think about Appelsiininkuorten Katu (2012)?
I'd give this book a 3 1/2. Thought it was very interesting and well written. Engaging characters.
—w_grobbelaar
Gave it up midway through. Oddly enough, this "dervish" moves at a snail's pace.
—deb1
A lovely novel. Heartbreaking, well written, and engaging.
—emalynnstone
Enjoyed the story, characters and writing style.
—Katie5295
