A Thousand Splendid Suns: Family, Friendship, and Survival in Afghanistan

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A Thousand Splendid Suns
“A Thousand Splendid Suns” is a tale of two generations that live under the shadow of
tragic wars and volatile events in Afghanistan. There is a struggle to find happiness or survive
amidst all that fear and violence. The tale is a moving account of family and friendship during
unforgiving times.
Laila’s friend Tariq loses his leg in a landmine explosion when he was five. However, he
tries to deal with his disability and uses his leg as an advantage. He deals with his disability in
his own way, and it reflects that he carries a strong character. He uses his prosthetic leg as a
weapon when needed and even gives a good beating to Khadim so that he never bothers Laila
again. He overcomes his adverse situations like his parents' deaths or living in a refugee camp or
losing his leg. When he outgrows his prosthetic leg, he waits for months until the Red Cross can
get him a new one. He gives hope and reasons to live to himself and Laila. Although he is
intelligent, he rarely shows his emotions.
Tariq’s behavior suggests that he has a storing and positive character. Despite his
handicap, he never lets the disability overshadow his optimistic nature. He looks at the positive
aspects of his life, like Laila’s positive influence and their relationship. He grows up to be a
responsible and sensitive adult. Despite facing a complicated and harsh life, he manages to reach
back to the positivism in his life. Tariq’s character reflects love, care, and respect for women and
their feelings (Monicka, Judith and Yazhini 184). He remains loyal and devoted to his wife. He
is always positive and feels lucky to have come out of his traumatic situation in life. It shows that