Broken April – Ismail Kadare

Ismail Kadare's Broken April is a captivating novel that takes us on a journey to the beautiful yet rugged Albanian mountains. The story revolves around Gjorg Berisha, a young man who has just killed a man and now must comply with the ancient Kanun law, which decrees that he must pay for his crime by living as a fugitive for thirty days.As the book progresses, we come to learn more about Albania's harsh customs and traditions, as well as its troubled history. Despite being a work of fiction, Kadare's work is rooted in a deep understanding of the country and its culture. It's a poignant and thought-provoking novel that raises questions about morality, justice, and the weight of tradition.The book's title, Broken April, is a reference to the month of April, which marks the beginning of the blood feuds. The novel is full of symbolism and metaphors, and it's fascinating to see how Kadare weaves together the different strands of his story to create a powerful and haunting narrative.Overall, Broken April is an excellent novel that offers a unique and insightful glimpse of Albania's culture and history. It's a must-read for anyone interested in Balkan literature or looking for a captivating story that will stay with them long after they've finished reading.