Star of Light

A really good book and lovely story if you get passed the subtle aftertastes of colonialism and white-savior-ism.

Hamid does not want his little blind sister, Kinza, to be sold to a beggar, by their stepfather, so he decides to rescue her. Together they escape from their mountain village to a town where there may be a new home for Kinza. But this is only the start of their adventures. Will Kinza be safe? What will happen to Hamid who dares not go back home?

I first heard Star of Light told by a storyteller on cassette years ago, and read the book a few years later. I was young, and missed the significance of the setting in a Muslim culture, and I skipped over the parts where the teacher talked about salvation. The story was a good one (although I'd like to see the characters a little more round and dynamic), and I've enjoyed rereading it. As an adult, I think teaching some background into the culture would make a significant difference in understanding the book, and I'd love to teach the book alongside of Ramadan and a study into Islam.

Hamid does not want his little blind sister, Kinza, to be sold to a beggar, by their stepfather, so he decides to rescue her. Together they escape from their mountain village to a town where there may be a new home for Kinza. But this is only the start of their adventures. Will Kinza be safe? What will happen to Hamid who dares not go back home?

A great story for children and adults of all ages. Shows the reality of life in other countries, the effects of poverty and the difference that Jesus can make. Not only in the lifes of a poor goat herder but in that of a spoilt rich English girl. A heart rending story that had me blinking away tears at points.

The man watched Kinza as a snake might watch a baby rabbit at play, waiting for the moment to strike. And for one breathless moment Hamid was sure that he would reach out and snatch her away. Hamid does not want his little blind sister, Kinza, to be sold to a beggar by their stepfather, so he decides to rescue her.

Review by Joey: I like this book called Star of Light, because it teaches me that the teaching of God can transform your life for ever.