I have heard comments from people saying they didn't like this book because it was dark and difficult to read. Well it is dark and it had to be - the lives chronicled in these interwoven stories faced many often seemingly insurmountable troubles. The culture they live in is dark and troubling filled with stereotypes that are difficult to rise above. This book should be read if only to try to see the world through the eyes of someone different from you. The writing is gorgeous, the landscape and people filled in with brushstrokes of descriptive prose. The narrative style of seeing the same events viewed through three different eyes adds depth and understanding to the story. The ending is ambiguous which also bothers some readers but I think a reader should bring their thoughts and ideas into a book and should on their own be able to add their ending. Hollywood is also always hitting us over the head with pat endings and I much prefer this style. The opportunities for discussion are myriad and I think it is a great selection to read and hopefully learn from.