Hollow Fires

Hollow Fires is a powerful, timely, and relentlessly compelling book that explores the story of Jawad Ali, a young boy who was arrested and killed after being mistaken for a terrorist. It exposes the evil that hides in plain sight and the silent complicity of privileged bystanders who use alternative facts to bend the truth to their liking.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Hollow Fires, a novel by Samira Ahmed, is a captivating and thought-provoking blend of social relevance, heartfelt coming-of-age, and razor-sharp plotting. The book shines with Ahmed's trademark style, which combines profound societal commentary with relatable characters and intricate storytelling.

At the heart of Hollow Fires is Safiya Mirza, a young aspiring journalist determined to uncover the truth and report the stories that matter. As the editor of her school newspaper, Safiya has learned the importance of unbiased reporting, seeking facts rather than letting personal biases cloud her judgment. However, everything changes when she meets Jawad Ali, a fourteen-year-old boy who becomes known as "Bomb Boy" after a tragic mistake.

Jawad was arrested and labeled a terrorist after a teacher mistook his cosplay jetpack for a bomb. Tragically, his life was cut short when he was eventually killed. Safiya, driven by Jawad's haunting voice and her desire for justice, embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about the murdered boy and those responsible for his death.

Through her investigation, Safiya uncovers a web of lies, secrets, and the silent complicity of privileged bystanders who use alternative facts to bend the truth to their liking. Hollow Fires exposes the evil that hides in plain sight and the consequences of a society that chooses to turn a blind eye to the suffering of others.

The novel is a powerful exploration of our times, offering a searing indictment of the systems and institutions that perpetuate injustice and inequality. It challenges readers to confront their own biases and assumptions and to demand accountability from those in power.

Hollow Fires is not just a story; it is a call to action. It reminds us that the truth is worth fighting for, that every life has value, and that we must work together to create a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, Hollow Fires is a must-read for anyone who values thought-provoking literature, social commentary, and a compelling story that challenges our perceptions of reality. Samira Ahmed's talent for storytelling and her ability to shed light on important issues make this novel a standout in the literary landscape.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349003955