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The Orphans of Kashmir
We are ripples on the lake, and, just like those ripples, our actions echo for eternity.
Imran Ullah was orphaned by the Indian army when he was an infant. He never knew his mother or father, not even their names. All he has known is the harsh reality Muslims in Kashmir face. Now seventeen-years-old, he has lived a life of poverty and abuse, and he questions the meaning of his very existence. However, everything changes the day he meets a girl: Fiza. What follows is a journey of love and loss that changes his life forever, a journey in which he discovers the secrets surrounding his parents’ deaths. However, above all else, Imran will find his place in the world.
Imran Ullah was orphaned by the Indian army when he was an infant. He never knew his mother or father, not even their names. All he has known is the harsh reality Muslims in Kashmir face. Now seventeen-years-old, he has lived a life of poverty and abuse, and he questions the meaning of his very existence. However, everything changes the day he meets a girl: Fiza. What follows is a journey of love and loss that changes his life forever, a journey in which he discovers the secrets surrounding his parents’ deaths. However, above all else, Imran will find his place in the world.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2021
218 people are currently reading
3928 people want to read
About the author
Ammar Habib
30 books1,377 followersAmmar is an award-winning & bestselling author from Lake Jackson, Texas. Ammar enjoys crafting stories that are entertaining and inspirational. Ammar presently resides in his hometown.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
April 10, 2021
I'd Give This Book 6 Stars If I Could
Normally I don’t read these kind of books, I’m more of a fantasy reader. And even though I sometimes absolutely hated what happened in this story, it didn’t take away the fact that this book is incredibly beautiful. It was beautifully written and showed me a different kind of World that actually exists. Not only in imagination, but on real maps of the world.
Though the novel sheds a light on the crisis and atrocities afflicted on the Kashmiri Muslims by the Indian government, it's not a political novel. It's the story of a young man, Imran Ullah, finding his place in a world that has shown him almost nothing but cruelty all his life. Imran's parents were murdered by the Indian army when he was an infant, and he questions his very existence. The Indian police and army routinely come to Imran's village of Azadabaad and kill/abuse/assault the Muslims there to keep them in line. Furthermore, some villagers treat Imran harshly for seemingly no reason.
His life changes when he meets Fiza. As the two of them bond and begin to slowly fall in love, he begins to find a meaning to his life. Through the course of the story, the mysteries surrounding Imran's parents and his caretaker (Uncle Khalid) are revealed. He realizes that everything about his past is not what it seems. Furthermore, he finds how who he truly is as a person, and he finds meaning for his life. He finds a light in the darkness. And the end--that beautiful last line of the novel--will leave readers in tears.
I will say that the story does have a slow pace at first as the author builds the world, characters, and relationships. However, once it picks up steam, it was impossible to put down. There are so many memorable lines, scenes, and metaphors expressed in here, and the insight into the life of an orphan in a 3rd world country was spectacular.
Here's one of my favorite quotes:
“We truly are ripples on the lake. However, unlike the water’s ripples, the ripples of life don’t end in death. They carry on in everyone we touch, even if we can’t see it. They echo for eternity, and, in that way, we truly are immortal.”
And another gem:
“Sometimes, it’s not our choices that turn us into who we are. Sometimes, it’s fate. Circumstance. Sometimes, we are pricked by so many thorns that we forget the fact that everyone else is traveling down the same thorn-ridden path.”
This one is also so GOOD:
“In the shadows of the village, in the dark spots where nobody sees us, we steal each other away from the world.”
Last but not least, this one made me CRY:
“I’d put myself in Hell for eternity if it let you be in Paradise for a day.”
Beautiful, heartbreaking and a humbling reminder about what life is like for so many people across the globe. Incredibly well written and gripping. Those of us living in 1st world countries are truly blessed.
Normally I don’t read these kind of books, I’m more of a fantasy reader. And even though I sometimes absolutely hated what happened in this story, it didn’t take away the fact that this book is incredibly beautiful. It was beautifully written and showed me a different kind of World that actually exists. Not only in imagination, but on real maps of the world.
Though the novel sheds a light on the crisis and atrocities afflicted on the Kashmiri Muslims by the Indian government, it's not a political novel. It's the story of a young man, Imran Ullah, finding his place in a world that has shown him almost nothing but cruelty all his life. Imran's parents were murdered by the Indian army when he was an infant, and he questions his very existence. The Indian police and army routinely come to Imran's village of Azadabaad and kill/abuse/assault the Muslims there to keep them in line. Furthermore, some villagers treat Imran harshly for seemingly no reason.
His life changes when he meets Fiza. As the two of them bond and begin to slowly fall in love, he begins to find a meaning to his life. Through the course of the story, the mysteries surrounding Imran's parents and his caretaker (Uncle Khalid) are revealed. He realizes that everything about his past is not what it seems. Furthermore, he finds how who he truly is as a person, and he finds meaning for his life. He finds a light in the darkness. And the end--that beautiful last line of the novel--will leave readers in tears.
I will say that the story does have a slow pace at first as the author builds the world, characters, and relationships. However, once it picks up steam, it was impossible to put down. There are so many memorable lines, scenes, and metaphors expressed in here, and the insight into the life of an orphan in a 3rd world country was spectacular.
Here's one of my favorite quotes:
“We truly are ripples on the lake. However, unlike the water’s ripples, the ripples of life don’t end in death. They carry on in everyone we touch, even if we can’t see it. They echo for eternity, and, in that way, we truly are immortal.”
And another gem:
“Sometimes, it’s not our choices that turn us into who we are. Sometimes, it’s fate. Circumstance. Sometimes, we are pricked by so many thorns that we forget the fact that everyone else is traveling down the same thorn-ridden path.”
This one is also so GOOD:
“In the shadows of the village, in the dark spots where nobody sees us, we steal each other away from the world.”
Last but not least, this one made me CRY:
“I’d put myself in Hell for eternity if it let you be in Paradise for a day.”
Beautiful, heartbreaking and a humbling reminder about what life is like for so many people across the globe. Incredibly well written and gripping. Those of us living in 1st world countries are truly blessed.
March 27, 2021
All I Can Say is: WOW!!
This book absolutely rocked me! I was not aware of what has been happening in Jammu & Kashmir for so long and the sort of oppression the Muslims in Kashmir face, so this book really opened my eyes. But the book is not about politics. It's the journey of a young man, Imran, as he tries to find some purpose for his existence and find his place in this world.
The best way to describe the novel is that it's a coming of age story. Imran was orphaned by the Indian Army when he was an infant, so he has spent his entire life questioning God and resenting his parents for "abandoning" him. Though he has a caretaker (Uncle Khalid) and an adopted brother (Umar), he feels like the world is cruel to him and he feels as if he has no reason to exist. Many other young men are abusive toward him, and most of the villagers ignore him altogether.
When he meets Fiza, his world begins to change. He finds someone who shares his pain, and in this shared pain they begin to grow attached and fall in love. That's when the story truly begins. It's a story of brotherhood between Imran & Umar, the relationship between Imran & Uncle Khalid, and the love between Imran & Fiza.
There's some amazing symbolism in the story. The most obvious are the mountains of Kashmir, which the region is most famous for. The religious symbolism is also well-played and not overly heavy. It rolls right into Imran's character arc and growth. The tone of the book has a certain realism to it mixed with romanticism, which really lured me in.
As far as themes go, one major theme was growing up and losing our innocence. When many kids are young, they often think the world of their parents, just like Imran does at the start. But, as he becomes an adult, he learns that his father was not all that Imran believed, just like many teenagers start to see the flaws in their parents as they become adults. There is also a major theme of fate. We often do not get to choose the hand dealt to us, and it sometimes seems that our destinies are written before we are born. No matter how hard we fight it, that destiny and fate always catches up to us.
The final theme I caught was the theme of the human spirit. Every person goes through abuse, especially the characters in this story. Many of them have been the victims of violence, sexual violence, poverty, and destitution. However, what is shown is that we can choose to let the darkness crush us, or we can choose to carry the burden and protect others from it. That's the real essence of the book.
This novel really demonstrates how war can affect us. One action can change the course of our life. However, no matter what happens, we can choose to be the light in the darkness. We aren't defined by our past, family, or circumstances. Instead, we are defined by our actions. Our actions affect others, and they echo in the lives of who they touch, even long after we're gone. And (as the book says) in that way, we truly live forever in our deeds.
This is an eye-opening book, and I'm very motivated to bring the attention of my friends/family to the crisis happening in Kashmir as we speak. Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
This book absolutely rocked me! I was not aware of what has been happening in Jammu & Kashmir for so long and the sort of oppression the Muslims in Kashmir face, so this book really opened my eyes. But the book is not about politics. It's the journey of a young man, Imran, as he tries to find some purpose for his existence and find his place in this world.
The best way to describe the novel is that it's a coming of age story. Imran was orphaned by the Indian Army when he was an infant, so he has spent his entire life questioning God and resenting his parents for "abandoning" him. Though he has a caretaker (Uncle Khalid) and an adopted brother (Umar), he feels like the world is cruel to him and he feels as if he has no reason to exist. Many other young men are abusive toward him, and most of the villagers ignore him altogether.
When he meets Fiza, his world begins to change. He finds someone who shares his pain, and in this shared pain they begin to grow attached and fall in love. That's when the story truly begins. It's a story of brotherhood between Imran & Umar, the relationship between Imran & Uncle Khalid, and the love between Imran & Fiza.
There's some amazing symbolism in the story. The most obvious are the mountains of Kashmir, which the region is most famous for. The religious symbolism is also well-played and not overly heavy. It rolls right into Imran's character arc and growth. The tone of the book has a certain realism to it mixed with romanticism, which really lured me in.
As far as themes go, one major theme was growing up and losing our innocence. When many kids are young, they often think the world of their parents, just like Imran does at the start. But, as he becomes an adult, he learns that his father was not all that Imran believed, just like many teenagers start to see the flaws in their parents as they become adults. There is also a major theme of fate. We often do not get to choose the hand dealt to us, and it sometimes seems that our destinies are written before we are born. No matter how hard we fight it, that destiny and fate always catches up to us.
The final theme I caught was the theme of the human spirit. Every person goes through abuse, especially the characters in this story. Many of them have been the victims of violence, sexual violence, poverty, and destitution. However, what is shown is that we can choose to let the darkness crush us, or we can choose to carry the burden and protect others from it. That's the real essence of the book.
This novel really demonstrates how war can affect us. One action can change the course of our life. However, no matter what happens, we can choose to be the light in the darkness. We aren't defined by our past, family, or circumstances. Instead, we are defined by our actions. Our actions affect others, and they echo in the lives of who they touch, even long after we're gone. And (as the book says) in that way, we truly live forever in our deeds.
This is an eye-opening book, and I'm very motivated to bring the attention of my friends/family to the crisis happening in Kashmir as we speak. Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
March 8, 2021
Emotional & Powerful Read
This is a book that NEEDS to be read. I knew a bit about the crisis in Kashmir before reading this, but I wasn't informed about it nearly as much as I should be. The Orphans of Kashmir is an eye-opening read that truly humanizes the Muslims of Kashmir and demonstrates the horrors they experience at the hands of their oppressors. However, it also demonstrates how the human spirit is truly unbreakable. As the novel mentions, it is in our darkest times that we are forged into who we are meant to become.
The story takes place in the Jammu & Kashmir region in the early 2000s. Though it starts off at a slower pace than most books I enjoy, the author does a great job of bringing the reader into the world of Kashmir and painting a picture of what it's like to live there. I felt like I could see and sense the scenes that he described. Through the protagonist (Imran Ullah), we also get a good sense of the despair, hopelessness, and torture that the Muslims of Kashmir experience in their lives. As Imran goes throughout his day, there is always the constant looming threat that Indian soldiers or police officers could show up at any moment and harass (or kill) him or his fellow villagers.
Through Imran's journey we see him change. He thinks little of himself in the beginning of the story, and he sees himself as just a "Poor Orphan" who is bound to a life of poverty and despair. But after he meets Fiza, his entire life changes. He begins to find hope and find love, and Imran soon starts to build a life for himself. His relationship with Fiza and Umar (his adopted brother) are the driving forces of the story. Telling the story through Imran's point-of-view was an excellent choice, and I found myself going on his character journey with him.
At it's core, this is not a story about politics and war. It is a story about the human spirit. Our lives are not isolated. Our choices have consequences, and our decisions will effect more than ourselves. We are connected, and one wrong choice can destroy or build countless lives. One line from the book which sums this up (and is one of my favorite lines) is:
"We are ripples on the lake, and, just like those ripples, our actions echo for eternity."
If you're a fan of historical novels or a reader of important, contemporary works, you MUST pick up a copy of The Orphans of Kashmir! You won't be disappointed!
This is a book that NEEDS to be read. I knew a bit about the crisis in Kashmir before reading this, but I wasn't informed about it nearly as much as I should be. The Orphans of Kashmir is an eye-opening read that truly humanizes the Muslims of Kashmir and demonstrates the horrors they experience at the hands of their oppressors. However, it also demonstrates how the human spirit is truly unbreakable. As the novel mentions, it is in our darkest times that we are forged into who we are meant to become.
The story takes place in the Jammu & Kashmir region in the early 2000s. Though it starts off at a slower pace than most books I enjoy, the author does a great job of bringing the reader into the world of Kashmir and painting a picture of what it's like to live there. I felt like I could see and sense the scenes that he described. Through the protagonist (Imran Ullah), we also get a good sense of the despair, hopelessness, and torture that the Muslims of Kashmir experience in their lives. As Imran goes throughout his day, there is always the constant looming threat that Indian soldiers or police officers could show up at any moment and harass (or kill) him or his fellow villagers.
Through Imran's journey we see him change. He thinks little of himself in the beginning of the story, and he sees himself as just a "Poor Orphan" who is bound to a life of poverty and despair. But after he meets Fiza, his entire life changes. He begins to find hope and find love, and Imran soon starts to build a life for himself. His relationship with Fiza and Umar (his adopted brother) are the driving forces of the story. Telling the story through Imran's point-of-view was an excellent choice, and I found myself going on his character journey with him.
At it's core, this is not a story about politics and war. It is a story about the human spirit. Our lives are not isolated. Our choices have consequences, and our decisions will effect more than ourselves. We are connected, and one wrong choice can destroy or build countless lives. One line from the book which sums this up (and is one of my favorite lines) is:
"We are ripples on the lake, and, just like those ripples, our actions echo for eternity."
If you're a fan of historical novels or a reader of important, contemporary works, you MUST pick up a copy of The Orphans of Kashmir! You won't be disappointed!
March 13, 2021
You Won't Regret Reading The Orphans of Kashmir
"The Orphans of Kashmir" is a story I am so glad to have read! Though it's a work of fiction, the novel has many vital lessons and spotlight human injustices that are happening in the 21st century.
The story focuses on a 17-year-old orphan named Imran Ullah. He is a Kashmiri Muslim who has been abused and neglected all his life, and his own village calls him "The Poor Orphan." His only real friend is his adopted brother, Umar, who is also an orphan. He has lived with Uncle Khalid (his caretaker) all his life, but Uncle Khalid has hardly ever showed him any warmth. Kashmiri Muslims are constantly harassed by the Indian military and police. Soldiers frequently visit the village, and they murder many of the men and rape or abduct many women and girls.
The book is the story of Imran as he goes from a boy to a man and realizes that he can rise above his past. It's a story of finding hope and finding purpose in the darkest of situations. It's the story of how we are not defined by the labels people put on us; instead, we can choose to be who we want to be. Though the story has some important political messages, it never loses its sense of being a character-driven story.
The Orphans of Kashmir is an amazing story that is filled with religion, status, acceptance, feelings of neglect, suffering, secrets, and father-son dynamics. More than anything else, it's a story of forgiveness and taking responsibility for one's life.
War is both physical and eternal and Ammar Habib perfectly reflected this in The Orphans of Kashmir.
"The Orphans of Kashmir" is a story I am so glad to have read! Though it's a work of fiction, the novel has many vital lessons and spotlight human injustices that are happening in the 21st century.
The story focuses on a 17-year-old orphan named Imran Ullah. He is a Kashmiri Muslim who has been abused and neglected all his life, and his own village calls him "The Poor Orphan." His only real friend is his adopted brother, Umar, who is also an orphan. He has lived with Uncle Khalid (his caretaker) all his life, but Uncle Khalid has hardly ever showed him any warmth. Kashmiri Muslims are constantly harassed by the Indian military and police. Soldiers frequently visit the village, and they murder many of the men and rape or abduct many women and girls.
The book is the story of Imran as he goes from a boy to a man and realizes that he can rise above his past. It's a story of finding hope and finding purpose in the darkest of situations. It's the story of how we are not defined by the labels people put on us; instead, we can choose to be who we want to be. Though the story has some important political messages, it never loses its sense of being a character-driven story.
The Orphans of Kashmir is an amazing story that is filled with religion, status, acceptance, feelings of neglect, suffering, secrets, and father-son dynamics. More than anything else, it's a story of forgiveness and taking responsibility for one's life.
War is both physical and eternal and Ammar Habib perfectly reflected this in The Orphans of Kashmir.
March 11, 2021
A MUST READ
This book is another example of the importance of reading stories that make you uncomfortable. The Kite Runner was difficult to read at parts but it was an incredible story. The writing was incredible. I think this book is a MUST read, particularly for people of privilege that have grown up in “safe” communities/countries.
Though it can be viewed as a coming-of-age story, The Orphans of Kashmir, is set apart from other books due to its setting and contemporary relevancy. It follows a teenage boy who was orphaned as a child due to heinous crimes committed by Indian soldiers. He has no self-worth and believes he is destined for a life of poverty and loneliness. However, everything changes when he meets a girl named Fiza.
What I really liked about the book is how "raw" it is. Though it is sad, it isn't overly emotional and never becomes too political. It is a book focused on a character journey through-and-through. We see Imran go from a boy to a man, and we see him rise above his circumstances and find himself and find his place in the world.
This is a book that I HIGHLY encourage everyone to read. It is hard to read due to its subject matter, and it made me uncomfortable at times through its dialogue and circumstances. But I think the author intended for that to happen. You'll be a better human after reading this. If you live in a first-world country, you'll be more appreciative of what you have, and you'll look for how you can help others.
5/5 stars!
This book is another example of the importance of reading stories that make you uncomfortable. The Kite Runner was difficult to read at parts but it was an incredible story. The writing was incredible. I think this book is a MUST read, particularly for people of privilege that have grown up in “safe” communities/countries.
Though it can be viewed as a coming-of-age story, The Orphans of Kashmir, is set apart from other books due to its setting and contemporary relevancy. It follows a teenage boy who was orphaned as a child due to heinous crimes committed by Indian soldiers. He has no self-worth and believes he is destined for a life of poverty and loneliness. However, everything changes when he meets a girl named Fiza.
What I really liked about the book is how "raw" it is. Though it is sad, it isn't overly emotional and never becomes too political. It is a book focused on a character journey through-and-through. We see Imran go from a boy to a man, and we see him rise above his circumstances and find himself and find his place in the world.
This is a book that I HIGHLY encourage everyone to read. It is hard to read due to its subject matter, and it made me uncomfortable at times through its dialogue and circumstances. But I think the author intended for that to happen. You'll be a better human after reading this. If you live in a first-world country, you'll be more appreciative of what you have, and you'll look for how you can help others.
5/5 stars!
May 14, 2021
Gosh, I could not stop reading this book. I had tons of other things to do, but the plight of the Ghareeb Yateem really strikes at the heart. This is a young man who is coming of age in a war-torn land. The generational conflicts ripple down into orphaned children's lives. I was particularly struck by the aloof Uncle's dreadful secret and by the courage he exemplified in having found a way to go on living after unimaginable tragedy. That theme of finding a way to go on living after everyone you love has been ripped away will resonate with any reader who has faced the loss of a loved one. And, for those who have not, then, this will give insight into the weight of disproportionate power standing with its armies and military might on the necks of little people. This is both a young person's novel and a novel for readers of any age. The Kite Runner is certainly one book that is similar in tone, but also Uncertain Light by Marion Molteno would also be a good book to read along with this one.
March 5, 2021
Best Book of the Year
This book tore my heart open. It's raw, gut-wrenching, and powerful, and any reader who reads it with an open mind will not be the same after reaching the last page. From the start, the writing, voice, and descriptions pulled me into the story, and I felt like I was standing in Kashmir alongside Imran Ullah. His journey of struggle, love, loss, and self-discovery is the absolute driving force for the story. Like the author states, this story is not about the politics of Jammu & Kashmir; instead, it is about the people--the Muslims natives who are oppressed for their religious beliefs.
The love story between Imran & Fiza is the catalyst for the novel, and I thought it was written wonderfully. It's not over-the-top and feel realistic and respectful of the culture. The brotherhood between Imran and Umar is also am important factor in the story and is a core of the book. The tragic backstories of all the characters really made me empathize for them and hope for a happy ending. and the twist midway through the book made me literally gasp!
The story is full of memorable lines. It's hard to narrow down the list, but some of my favorite lines are:
"It hurts, doesn't it? The feeling of being all alone. The feeling of being...unnecessary."
"I'd put myself in Hell for eternity if it let you be in Paradise for a day."
Overall, I'd recommend this book to any reader of historical fiction or any reader wanting to grow their knowledge of global issues. I knew knowing of the crisis in Kashmir before reading this, but now my heart aches for the people there. I pray that the oppression against the people of Kashmir ends.
Thank you to Ammar Habib for writing such a gut-wrenching and powerful novel. It has changed my perspective on many things, and I am grateful to have read it.
This book tore my heart open. It's raw, gut-wrenching, and powerful, and any reader who reads it with an open mind will not be the same after reaching the last page. From the start, the writing, voice, and descriptions pulled me into the story, and I felt like I was standing in Kashmir alongside Imran Ullah. His journey of struggle, love, loss, and self-discovery is the absolute driving force for the story. Like the author states, this story is not about the politics of Jammu & Kashmir; instead, it is about the people--the Muslims natives who are oppressed for their religious beliefs.
The love story between Imran & Fiza is the catalyst for the novel, and I thought it was written wonderfully. It's not over-the-top and feel realistic and respectful of the culture. The brotherhood between Imran and Umar is also am important factor in the story and is a core of the book. The tragic backstories of all the characters really made me empathize for them and hope for a happy ending. and the twist midway through the book made me literally gasp!
The story is full of memorable lines. It's hard to narrow down the list, but some of my favorite lines are:
"It hurts, doesn't it? The feeling of being all alone. The feeling of being...unnecessary."
"I'd put myself in Hell for eternity if it let you be in Paradise for a day."
Overall, I'd recommend this book to any reader of historical fiction or any reader wanting to grow their knowledge of global issues. I knew knowing of the crisis in Kashmir before reading this, but now my heart aches for the people there. I pray that the oppression against the people of Kashmir ends.
Thank you to Ammar Habib for writing such a gut-wrenching and powerful novel. It has changed my perspective on many things, and I am grateful to have read it.
March 10, 2021
FIVE STARS
This is one of my favorite books in a while, and that's not something that I say lightly. Historical fiction works (especially those with important contemporary themes) are always a winner for me, so I was excited to read an advanced copy of this novel. I'm so glad I did!
I was not very aware of the situation in Kashmir before reading this, but the introduction and opening chapter really bring you up to speed. The voice/narration style pulled me into the work. It has a sort of elegant yet simple tone which (along with the vivid descriptions) immersed me into the setting of the Kashmir Valley.
Imran Ullah's journey from a boy to a man is very inspiring. I felt so many emotions over the course of the novel, from sorrow for the Kashmiri Muslims to anger toward the Indian army to guilt for how we Westerners have completely ignored this crisis. The book is very eye-opening.
However, like the author says, this is not a book of politics. It's a book about a person finding his place in the world. I loved how the brotherhood between Imran and Umar was written and how it evolved int he story. The big twist in the middle was a huge surprise! I also loved how Imran's relationship with Fiza worked. It was very realistic and well-paced, and it is a huge driving force for the story.
There are many memorable lines throughout the book that I actually highlighted because they were so good! All in all, this is a story that will stay with me for a long time. Definitely a 5-star read!
This is one of my favorite books in a while, and that's not something that I say lightly. Historical fiction works (especially those with important contemporary themes) are always a winner for me, so I was excited to read an advanced copy of this novel. I'm so glad I did!
I was not very aware of the situation in Kashmir before reading this, but the introduction and opening chapter really bring you up to speed. The voice/narration style pulled me into the work. It has a sort of elegant yet simple tone which (along with the vivid descriptions) immersed me into the setting of the Kashmir Valley.
Imran Ullah's journey from a boy to a man is very inspiring. I felt so many emotions over the course of the novel, from sorrow for the Kashmiri Muslims to anger toward the Indian army to guilt for how we Westerners have completely ignored this crisis. The book is very eye-opening.
However, like the author says, this is not a book of politics. It's a book about a person finding his place in the world. I loved how the brotherhood between Imran and Umar was written and how it evolved int he story. The big twist in the middle was a huge surprise! I also loved how Imran's relationship with Fiza worked. It was very realistic and well-paced, and it is a huge driving force for the story.
There are many memorable lines throughout the book that I actually highlighted because they were so good! All in all, this is a story that will stay with me for a long time. Definitely a 5-star read!
March 4, 2022
One of the greatest things about books and reading is the ability they have to open our eyes to topics and situations that we perhaps previously knew little about. In this, The Orphans of Kashmir truly excels – prior to reading I had little to no knowledge of the oppression of the people of Kashmir, and it’s evident that Ammar Habib has succeeded in his attempts to humanise and bring greater attention to the crisis. Beautiful, moving and eye-opening, this is a novel that I am so glad to have read, and one that will stay with now me for a long time.
This is, at its heart, an engaging and emotive coming of age story set against the backdrop of the oppression of Kashmir. It is by no means an easy read – many of the characters face truly heart-breaking struggles (trigger warnings here for violence and sexual violence), but it is a worthwhile one. Knowing the novel is based on true events really helped to amplify the setting and the characters for me; I could picture it all so easily in my mind as I read, and felt so much emotion for what Imran and the cast of characters was going through. This is testament, I think, to Habib’s excellent writing, and the way in which he so eloquently demonstrates the numerous impacts that war has on all who are touched by it is exceptional.
While the topic matter may be hard to read at times, I never felt like the book ventured too far, or attempted to up the emotional stakes in a way that felt forced or overdone in a way that some war-focused fiction can often do. It is a very real and very raw novel that will leave its mark upon you, and that, I think, is a wonderful achievement. I highly recommend - regardless of whether this is your usual or preferred genre, for The Orphans of Kashmir is a book that deserves to be read by many.
This is, at its heart, an engaging and emotive coming of age story set against the backdrop of the oppression of Kashmir. It is by no means an easy read – many of the characters face truly heart-breaking struggles (trigger warnings here for violence and sexual violence), but it is a worthwhile one. Knowing the novel is based on true events really helped to amplify the setting and the characters for me; I could picture it all so easily in my mind as I read, and felt so much emotion for what Imran and the cast of characters was going through. This is testament, I think, to Habib’s excellent writing, and the way in which he so eloquently demonstrates the numerous impacts that war has on all who are touched by it is exceptional.
While the topic matter may be hard to read at times, I never felt like the book ventured too far, or attempted to up the emotional stakes in a way that felt forced or overdone in a way that some war-focused fiction can often do. It is a very real and very raw novel that will leave its mark upon you, and that, I think, is a wonderful achievement. I highly recommend - regardless of whether this is your usual or preferred genre, for The Orphans of Kashmir is a book that deserves to be read by many.
October 16, 2021
This is one of those stories, you just can’t put down. It’s hard to believe that a people suffer from such an oppressive government as those in “The Orphans of Kashmir” by Ammar Habib. The story is written through the eyes of a 17-year-old orphan boy, Imran, who lost his father before he was born, his mother just afterwards. To be an orphan in Kashmir is to be considered the lowest of low, a nobody, a non-necessity, worthless.
The story takes place in the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent in the Kashmir Valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range. The author, Habib, does an outstanding job in describing the beauty of the land in contrast to the horrors the Muslim people of that region who suffer at the merciless hands of the Indian Police.
The “Orphans of Kashmir” vividly describes the abject poverty these people suffer within the culture of extreme oppression and brutality. It’s a coming of age story of a orphaned young man without hope, without a future who seeks peace and purpose for his life. And does he find it? The ending will surprise you. A great great read. I highly recommend it.
The story takes place in the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent in the Kashmir Valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range. The author, Habib, does an outstanding job in describing the beauty of the land in contrast to the horrors the Muslim people of that region who suffer at the merciless hands of the Indian Police.
The “Orphans of Kashmir” vividly describes the abject poverty these people suffer within the culture of extreme oppression and brutality. It’s a coming of age story of a orphaned young man without hope, without a future who seeks peace and purpose for his life. And does he find it? The ending will surprise you. A great great read. I highly recommend it.
April 13, 2021
4.5 stars
The Orphans of Kashmir is an outstanding epic, brimming with unforgettable characters, beautiful and heart-breaking moments, and a wonderful setting.
I admit, I knew little of Kashmir before reading this book, but Ammar Habib paints such a detailed picture that I feel like I've almost been there. I loved these characters so much; they're so authentic that I really don't see how they're not based on real people. The same can be said for many of the moments throughout, they just seem so specific and real.
The story, which spans over the course of a year, is remarkable. I felt a slew of emotions while reading, and just when I thought I knew what was about to happen, the story would take a different path.
My only complaint is the beginning. While it's just as well-written as the rest of the book, it takes too long to get going and it throws a lot of characters at you. I think it would have been better to shorten it a bit. Alas, it's a small complaint.
Highly recommended to anyone who likes to feel.
The Orphans of Kashmir is an outstanding epic, brimming with unforgettable characters, beautiful and heart-breaking moments, and a wonderful setting.
I admit, I knew little of Kashmir before reading this book, but Ammar Habib paints such a detailed picture that I feel like I've almost been there. I loved these characters so much; they're so authentic that I really don't see how they're not based on real people. The same can be said for many of the moments throughout, they just seem so specific and real.
The story, which spans over the course of a year, is remarkable. I felt a slew of emotions while reading, and just when I thought I knew what was about to happen, the story would take a different path.
My only complaint is the beginning. While it's just as well-written as the rest of the book, it takes too long to get going and it throws a lot of characters at you. I think it would have been better to shorten it a bit. Alas, it's a small complaint.
Highly recommended to anyone who likes to feel.
March 9, 2021
4.5/5 Stars!
Summary:
This is about an orphaned teenager (Imran Ullah) overcoming the abuse and horrors he's faced in his life and finding his place in the world. In essence, it is his coming of age story.
Likes:
This was beautifully written. The picture is painted perfectly. I felt the pain, shame, happiness, love, and fear. It's hard saying too much about this book without giving anything away.
Dislikes:
The book does start off a little slow, but that gives us a chance to really connect with Imran and the people of Kashmir. But once the 2nd act started, I couldn't put the book down.
Overall:
This book is a must read, no matter your age. It has something to teach us all. I am so glad I got to experience this story. It has some important social messages weaved into the story and character arc. I wish this book could be read by all high school students in America/Canada.
Summary:
This is about an orphaned teenager (Imran Ullah) overcoming the abuse and horrors he's faced in his life and finding his place in the world. In essence, it is his coming of age story.
Likes:
This was beautifully written. The picture is painted perfectly. I felt the pain, shame, happiness, love, and fear. It's hard saying too much about this book without giving anything away.
Dislikes:
The book does start off a little slow, but that gives us a chance to really connect with Imran and the people of Kashmir. But once the 2nd act started, I couldn't put the book down.
Overall:
This book is a must read, no matter your age. It has something to teach us all. I am so glad I got to experience this story. It has some important social messages weaved into the story and character arc. I wish this book could be read by all high school students in America/Canada.
May 15, 2021
An orphan, 17-year-old, Imran has faced many challenges and tragedies in his young impoverished life. His is a story of heartache, redemption and survival. Imran must find a way to make sense of his life, the legacy of the Good Sister, and sort out his own feelings about God in an area where Muslims are viewed with mistrust by the Indian army. The army is responsible for many shadowy disappearances and doesn’t treat the Pakistani citizens with respect. Then Imran meets Fiza and of course, the story of sorrow transforms into the ageless tale of boy meets girl. But it doesn’t follow a predictable path.
For those readers who are unfamiliar with the region it will provide some background, for those who already understand the culture, it is an interesting story of how Imran will come to terms with his world. The author does a good job of shining a light on the human rights atrocities in the Jammu region and on the suffering of people in Kashmir.
For those readers who are unfamiliar with the region it will provide some background, for those who already understand the culture, it is an interesting story of how Imran will come to terms with his world. The author does a good job of shining a light on the human rights atrocities in the Jammu region and on the suffering of people in Kashmir.
July 15, 2021
What a mix of emotions this book is, I defy anyone who is not moved by this tale of suffering, loss, tragedy and love. It's powerful and eye-opening. The author has done a fine job of crafting a gripping tale with characters that you live through the experiences with. I was surprised and sometimes shocked at the graphic descriptions that are necessary for the tale to be truly understood but I was also moved by the fact the love that was found is also so fundamental to the tale. Stories like this can really make a difference to people who have no idea how people live in different parts of the world. the sort of suffering that is sometimes normal and the abuse the often is present too. I found this book to be enlightening and moving and I was thinking about it for many days after I had finished reading it. Really great stuff and well recommended.
May 10, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book because it demonstrated what life was like in a different part of the world, and it also showed how people support each other like they are family even though they aren't family. We see the power of the human spirit, and the power of hope and courage. Though it's a coming-of-age story and a hero's journey for Imran Ullah, it is so much more. In today's world, this is the sort of book that must be read.
May 14, 2021
So often lots of us have a world view that is incredibly narrow. This book is an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of how much suffering a human can endure and yet continue to fight on.
May 14, 2021
This story is about a life we never hear about and most of us could not fathom living. The writing is compelling and the story is hard to imagine but for some people, this is their life.
May 18, 2021
Wow! Just wow! It’s not that often that a book touches not only my heart, but my soul as well, as much as this book has. I believe I said to the author that one of his previous books was one of the best books I’ve ever read—and that is still true. However, The Orphans of Kashmir surpassed even that book, and I think I’m not quite sure what to say other than that the emotions and feelings, plus the realism and truth in this book, is something you look for and hope for but don’t often fine, even in other great books that you really enjoy. Very few touch you as deeply as this one did me, and that says something not only about the story itself, but the immeasurable talent of the author who can bring a world so fully alive in the written word so as to deeply affect the reader in thus way. I could go on further, but let’s just conclude by saying that Ammar Habib is one of my favorite authors ever, and even if I could give this book a thousand stars, it would not be enough to measure how this book affected me. I also must say that it’s great to see stories that show the humanity and dignity of Muslim people, when there are so many writers who try to claim that Muslims are evil and demonic. I am not Muslim myself, but I have more than a basic level of knowledge of Islam and Muslim culture, and I think that so many of us, especially here in the West, could learn from these people many things indeed. My highest respect to the author and if I could make one request, it would be for more books like this one and the other one I read, which took place in Syria but I cannot recall the name of at this moment.
June 3, 2021
4.5 stars, but I won't undercut the review
Solid story with solid characters. I thought they writing was well-presented. I like a story that is rooted in facts. It's quite sad. Although it was a little difficult for me to identify with on a personal level, I know there are far too many people who will feel this story.
The story got off to a rock solid start:
"People say that Kashmir was crafted by God’s own hand. He molded the high mountains and hills that stretch as far as the eye can see, purified the crystal blue rivers and lakes, and painted the grass with His brush. He’s kept its beauty fresh ever since, a slice of heaven on earth.
I don’t believe that. I think God forgot about us a long time ago. The aesthetic countryside is nothing but a facade, an illusion. Underneath the land’s mirage of beauty lies the truth, and this truth is the one thing the people of Kashmir understand above all else: suffering."
You'll know quickly if this book is going to rope you in.
Solid story with solid characters. I thought they writing was well-presented. I like a story that is rooted in facts. It's quite sad. Although it was a little difficult for me to identify with on a personal level, I know there are far too many people who will feel this story.
The story got off to a rock solid start:
"People say that Kashmir was crafted by God’s own hand. He molded the high mountains and hills that stretch as far as the eye can see, purified the crystal blue rivers and lakes, and painted the grass with His brush. He’s kept its beauty fresh ever since, a slice of heaven on earth.
I don’t believe that. I think God forgot about us a long time ago. The aesthetic countryside is nothing but a facade, an illusion. Underneath the land’s mirage of beauty lies the truth, and this truth is the one thing the people of Kashmir understand above all else: suffering."
You'll know quickly if this book is going to rope you in.
March 4, 2021
I knew this was going to be a memorable read, but wow! I'm in awe of this poignant, captivating, and heartbreaking novel. Imran Ullah's coming-of-age story against the background of Kashmir penetrated deep in my soul and I will be thinking about this story for a long time to come. It opened my eyes to some of the harsh realities of oppression, war, and poverty, while at the same time it opened my heart to the love, hope, and endurance of the human spirit.
To think that the Muslims of Kashmir are oppressed, abused, and killed so routinely by the Indian army is unfathomable. Ammar Habib tells this story masterfully. Though it is a little slow at times, he builds the world vividly and pulls the reader into the story. Imran's arc with Fiza is the true heart of the book, and his relationship with Umar and Uncle Khalid is the soul of the story. The book brought me to tears, and I'll never forget it!
To think that the Muslims of Kashmir are oppressed, abused, and killed so routinely by the Indian army is unfathomable. Ammar Habib tells this story masterfully. Though it is a little slow at times, he builds the world vividly and pulls the reader into the story. Imran's arc with Fiza is the true heart of the book, and his relationship with Umar and Uncle Khalid is the soul of the story. The book brought me to tears, and I'll never forget it!
January 16, 2022
I started reading this book because the story was something that interested me. Kashmir is a sensitive topic of discussion but the simplicity with which this book depicts such a complex issue deserves all the praise we can shower upon it.
Pain is what binds the characters of this story together, and it’s the same suffering that ultimately liberates them. It is said that fiction does indeed, stem from reality. So, if you, as a reader, want to understand why Kashmir and anything related to it is talked about in hushed tones in India and even the world, there’s no better piece of fiction to help you understand it. I hope the review helps, and I hope you find yourself attached to Imran, Umar and Fiza just like I did.
Pain is what binds the characters of this story together, and it’s the same suffering that ultimately liberates them. It is said that fiction does indeed, stem from reality. So, if you, as a reader, want to understand why Kashmir and anything related to it is talked about in hushed tones in India and even the world, there’s no better piece of fiction to help you understand it. I hope the review helps, and I hope you find yourself attached to Imran, Umar and Fiza just like I did.
May 20, 2021
I absolutely loved this book, but you need to be emotionally prepared while reading it. “The Orphans of Kashmir” is one of a kind and it will bring your emotions into a roller coaster ride.
The story is about an orphan teenager name “Imran Ullah” who’s also called by his nickname “Ghareeb Yateem”, which means the poor orphan. Imran lived and work in a tea shop under his uncle who names “Khalid”, together with Umar his adopted brother. The story is focused on how Imran grows when he met Fiza, a girl who has a green eye and light brown skin whose name means “breeze”. Yet, one of the best lines that touched my heart is when Imran and Umar have a conversation about their place and suddenly Umar said that “ Azadabad means the place of freedom yet, I don't think any of us even know what freedom is.” This quote teaches me that being a human is given but keeping our humanity is a choice.
The story is about an orphan teenager name “Imran Ullah” who’s also called by his nickname “Ghareeb Yateem”, which means the poor orphan. Imran lived and work in a tea shop under his uncle who names “Khalid”, together with Umar his adopted brother. The story is focused on how Imran grows when he met Fiza, a girl who has a green eye and light brown skin whose name means “breeze”. Yet, one of the best lines that touched my heart is when Imran and Umar have a conversation about their place and suddenly Umar said that “ Azadabad means the place of freedom yet, I don't think any of us even know what freedom is.” This quote teaches me that being a human is given but keeping our humanity is a choice.
April 4, 2021
I probably will never be in Kashmir, but this book transported me there, it took me to its enchanted places and customs. We see these through the eyes of a young man, which makes those places even more charming. This sets up another important theme of the book and it is the horrors of war and civil unrest. The political fights and wars devastate not only the infrastructure of this beautiful country but also destroys people’s lives. It is a bleak illustration of the terrible consequences of political and religious violence.
The author blends all these themes in a most intriguing narrative against the background of a beautiful country, its destruction and its inevitable hope. I believe, these are some of the reasons why this book may be fascinating to so many.
The author blends all these themes in a most intriguing narrative against the background of a beautiful country, its destruction and its inevitable hope. I believe, these are some of the reasons why this book may be fascinating to so many.
May 20, 2021
This story has vivid descriptions, a strong theme of hope, a great character and story arc, and an emotional and climactic ending that satisfies. There are definitely a lot of tragic elements though. If you like the Kite Runner or the sequel (that wasn't really a sequel but still took place in the same world and had some character overlap even though it was told from third-person POV as opposed to the first book that was first-person), A Thousand Splendid Suns, this book is right up your alley.
A 17-year-old boy, Imran Ullah, is an orphan who has lived a life of abuse and loneliness (see the Kite Runner similarities???). He then grows as a person as he deals with countless tragedies. So sad but so inspiring.
A 17-year-old boy, Imran Ullah, is an orphan who has lived a life of abuse and loneliness (see the Kite Runner similarities???). He then grows as a person as he deals with countless tragedies. So sad but so inspiring.
March 7, 2021
This is a beautifully written and emotionally charged book that gives its readers a glimpse of the terrible ordeals people in war-torn countries go through. This is not a political tale nor does it take sides in any way. It simply tells the story of an average young man and how his life has been destroyed by a conflict that has existed long before he was born. It's a coming-of-age story about humanity and the beauty that can grow out of destruction and darkness. There are so many great scenes and lines, but that final line brought me to tears. It's our darkest times that forge us into who we are meant to be.
April 7, 2021
This is an enthralling story. I enjoyed going on this journey so much and will miss these well developed, captivating characters. The history of Kashmir was something I wasn’t familiar with but so interesting and heartbreaking to witness.
I love books best when they can make me cry, either from sadness or from laughter. It feels wonderful to feel. This book did, at one point in particular, give me the feels, and I loved that moment. I love tales of family, and more and more I realize that family is everything. This is a story of many things, but at its heart, it's a tale of family, and in particular, about the special bond between brothers and a story of destiny.
I love books best when they can make me cry, either from sadness or from laughter. It feels wonderful to feel. This book did, at one point in particular, give me the feels, and I loved that moment. I love tales of family, and more and more I realize that family is everything. This is a story of many things, but at its heart, it's a tale of family, and in particular, about the special bond between brothers and a story of destiny.
April 24, 2021
My heart has a new scar..
This book was very painful to read and this genre always makes me nervous.
Overall I liked the writing but the ruthless human nature that is being reminded is what breaks my heart. I wish humans were better, I wish these things hadn't happened, I wish things were different is all there in my mind.
These books give me the picture of hopelessness even when there is hope. I like how the author crafted the story around the events and how this pertained to a tainted friendship of the past to a new relationship of the future.
I loved the end lines and I would never recommend this book to anyone with a weak heart. 💔
This book was very painful to read and this genre always makes me nervous.
Overall I liked the writing but the ruthless human nature that is being reminded is what breaks my heart. I wish humans were better, I wish these things hadn't happened, I wish things were different is all there in my mind.
These books give me the picture of hopelessness even when there is hope. I like how the author crafted the story around the events and how this pertained to a tainted friendship of the past to a new relationship of the future.
I loved the end lines and I would never recommend this book to anyone with a weak heart. 💔
May 17, 2021
By far this has been one of the best books i have ever read. I literally finished this book in a day! I seriously could not put it down. Without spoiling the books talks about an orphaned boy who struggles with not only life but the hardship in Kashmir. this books had me emotional towards the end I could not believe it. The author did such a good job with the characters giving them life, purpose, and personality that intrigued me so that I couldn't put the book down. All in all a 10 out of 10! I cant wait to read more of what this author has to offer.
May 17, 2021
The author has written this book to let people know of the human rights abuses the people of Kashmir have endured in the past and are continuing to endure. This novel follows the story of an orphan of Kashmir whose parents were murdered. He knows nothing of them and is raised by a man unrelated to him he calls Uncle. He is taunted as an Orphan throughout his life and questions his very existence. This is the story of him looking for a purpose, finding himself, and pushing past his personal tragedies.
March 14, 2021
I was sad when this book was over because I enjoyed it so much. It is a really fascinating story, and it broke my heart to see how some people are still oppressed and abused in the 21st century. The characters were all really interesting and the author gives a fair amount of time to some of the secondary characters, which really helps make the story more interesting and less cliche. Though it has a slow start and took me about 50 pages to get into, the ending was fantastic!
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