Reviewed from Advance Review Copy

Only pick-up this book if you have time to read it in one sitting, because once you start reading you won't be able to put it down until you have read the last sentence. This is a remarkable story that captures your attention from beginning to end. There is never a dull moment.

A Syngue Sabor is a magical black stone that absorbs the troubles and difficulties of the person who confides in it. It is said that the stone will explode when it has reached its limit and can no longer contain the pain it harbors. Set in Afghanistan during the Taliban regime, we find a wife taking care of her comatose husband. As the days and weeks go by and he does not improve, the wife begins to share with him her disappointments, anger, resentments, betrayals, and desires- he becomes her "magical black stone" the keeper of her pain. In fear, excitement, and often times relief, she shares of herself, and her life, never knowing if her husband can hear. All the while risking her life if he can. This is a beautiful story. It's almost poetic. Definitely worth the read. Highly recommended. ( )

Livre sur la condition de la femme. Difficile et prenant.