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Shooting Kabul

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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N. H. Senzai

Shooting Kabul

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kabul, Afghanistan • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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Super Short Summary

In Shooting Kabul, 11-year-old Fadi Nurzai and his family flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan for San Francisco, but in the chaos, Fadi loses his six-year-old sister, Mariam. Struggling with his guilt while adapting to a new life, Fadi becomes determined to find Mariam by winning a photography contest that offers a trip to India, bringing him closer to her last known location. Sensitive topics include war, immigration struggles, and bullying.

Emotional

Adventurous

Hopeful

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

6,116 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

N. H. Senzai's Shooting Kabul compellingly captures a young Afghan boy's struggle with loss and adaptation in post-9/11 America. Reviewers praise the authentic cultural depictions, emotional depth, and accessible writing. However, some note that the plot occasionally feels predictable. Overall, it’s a heartfelt, educational read suitable for young audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shooting Kabul?

Readers who would enjoy Shooting Kabul by N. H. Senzai are typically young adults interested in stories about resilience, immigration, and cultural identity. Similar to The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis and Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai, this book appeals to those who appreciate heartfelt, family-centered narratives set against historical backdrops.

4.2

6,116 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Fadi Nurzai

An 11-year-old boy who emigrates from Afghanistan to the United States and struggles to adapt to his new environment while dealing with feelings of guilt related to his sister's situation.

Fadi’s six-year-old sister, who gets separated from the family as they flee Afghanistan, known for her talkative and willful nature.

Fadi's father and a former PhD student in agriculture, whose wisdom and bravery guide the family through the challenges they face as immigrants.

Fadi’s teenage sister who initially acts as his adversary but grows to support him, especially after the family moves to the United States.

Fadi's mother, whose illness and resulting absence from many family activities underscore her emotional and physical struggles.

Fadi’s best friend at school who encourages him to enter a photography contest, helping him come out of his shell and confront personal challenges.

Fadi’s art teacher and mentor who supports his creative endeavors and provides guidance as he deals with personal struggles.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kabul, Afghanistan • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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