Hiding in Plain Sight by Nuruddin Farah

Hiding in Plain Sight

Nuruddin Farah

Aar is killed by a terrorist attack while working for the UN in Mogadishu. Following his death, his sister Bella takes charge of his two children. A fight for custody ensues with Aar’s ex-wife while Bella has to come to terms with the loss of her beloved brother. Hard-hitting at times, the tumultuous backdrop is offset by the love Bella feels for her niece and nephew. This warm aspect gives a human angle to a country in turmoil.

Extract
Death in Somalia seldom bothers to announce its arrival. In fact, death calls with the arrogance of a guest confident of receiving a warm welcome at any time, no questions asked.
Parallels
  • The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
  • Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe