In 1973, the Shah still rules Iran. Women are considered “inferior”, and there are rumblings of unrest against the Shah’s autocratic rule.

Pasha, a 17-year-old student, likes to spend time on his roof, talking and joking with his friend, Ahmed. He also likes looking at the stars – and, Zari, the girl next door. He is quietly in love with her, but respects her arranged engagement to a man called “Doctor”. Doctor is gone much of the time, so Pasha has ample opportunity to strengthen his friendship with Zari. But one night Doctor is fleeing from the Shah’s secret police and hides in Zari’s courtyard. Pasha unwittingly gives his hiding place away; Doctor is arrested and never seen again. Even while trying to maintain his friendship with Zari, Pasha is consumed with guilt over his role in the fate of Doctor. A violent act of protest by one of the friends changes their lives, but the close relationships remain strong.

The ideas of friendship, love and loyalty in this book are timeless. Because of the setting and the overall themes, I think this coming-of-age story would appeal to anyone who liked The Kite Runner.