A review by mellabella
The Orchard of Lost Souls by Nadifa Mohamed

4.0

The Orchard of Lost Souls starts with the 18th anniversary that brought the current military dictator in Somalia to power. We are introduced to Kawsar, a widow in her 50's. She seems well off. Deqo, a young orphan who was abandoned at a refugee camp. And, Filsan. Filsan is a young female soldier whose father was also in the military. But now, is disgraced. She is very dedicated. But her gender, and fathers shame keeps her from attaining any sort of higher position in her career. The three parts of the book are told from each characters point of view. The characters interconnect. I liked Deqo's character the most. I kept hoping nothing would happen to her. Kawsar is scarred by her daughters death. This was after multiple still births. Her husband (who was chief of police. But refused to be corrupted) also died. Leaving her alone. She was hardened, but still soft when needed. Filsan was a character that was unlikeable. But, kind of redeemed herself at the end. Kawsar tells most of her story from her bed. After Filsan fractures her hip. She beat her for trying to save Deqo from a beating. We are told their stories in the present and in flashback as war looms near. Very engrossing.