This is the first novel by Mohammed Hanif. The author once worked in Pakistan Air Force , that experience is visible all around the book.
The story is based on the real incident-a plane(C130-Hercules) crash which killed then Pakistan President General Mohammed Zia-ul-Haq and then American ambassador Arnold Raphael and some other from Pakistan intelligence.Shortly after takeoff, the plane goes up and down and crashed and debris were found near the nearby orchard .
What happened to "Pak One" ,as the plane carrying Pakistan President called, on that particular day? The story expands through the eyes of Under Officer Ali Sigri,leader of Silent Drill Squad. He believes that his father was murdered by General Zia and plan to take revenge. His friend Under Officer Obaid(Baby 'O') who always read and quotes Rilke .Then there was a American Officer Bannon ,these three were friends.
On the other side, no.2 in the Military hierarchy General Akhtar who was long serving as second in command to General Zia want to kill Zia and become president.His characterization was unique and very funny.Zainab - a blind woman who was convicted for rape ,even though she was gang raped. The reason for sentencing her was that she was not able to identify the rapist.She too was cursing the Zia regiment for her pathetic condition.
The author gives many theories how Zia would have been killed
1)Killed by Ali Sigri's sword which was dipped in poison given by Uncle Starchy.
2)Poisonous gas through air conditioner setup by General Akhtar's men.
3)Zainab's curse.
4)A lazy Crow which hit the plane.
The above theories are combined and overlaid.And there are other real theories still floating . The authors description of life at Air Force Academy was simply wonderful.Then the episodes of General's tapeworm treatment by Saudi prince's personal doctor,Ali Sigri's conversation with the Secretary of Sweeper's Association , National Day parade preparation,July 4th party and General's Wife's behavior made me laugh loud
The author satirically brings the political situation and how religion plays the role in it.The witty one liners makes this book a enjoyable read.Overall a great book to read and laugh. The author of "The Reluctant Fundamentalist" Mohsin Hamid said this book is "unputdownable" and its true.
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| Mohammed Hanif |
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