The Kindness of Enemies
The Kindness of Enemies
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
Scotland And Russia • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Kindness of Enemies by Leila Aboulela follows Natasha Wilson, a half-Sudanese, half-Russian history professor researching Imam Shamil, a nineteenth-century Muslim leader. Discovering that her student Osama is Shamil's descendant and possesses his sword, Natasha's academic journey intertwines with Shamil's historical resistance against Russia, exploring themes of faith, identity, and politics across time.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
1,328 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Kindness of Enemies by Leila Aboulela has received mixed reviews. Critics praise the novel’s intricate blend of historical and contemporary narratives, as well as its exploration of identity and cultural conflict. However, some found the dual timelines unevenly engaging and the pacing inconsistent. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read with deep character insights.
Who Should Read The Kindness of Enemies?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich, intersecting narratives and themes of cultural identity will appreciate The Kindness of Enemies by Leila Aboulela. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Half of a Yellow Sun will find a compelling blend of personal and political conflict.
1,328 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Novel • Fiction
Scotland And Russia • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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