A strikingly powerful novel by the IMPAC shortlisted author of THE SWALLOWS OF KABUL and THE ATTACK. Forced to leave the University of Baghdad when the Americans invade Iraq, a young man returns to his home village where he witnesses unspeakable acts of violence committed by American soldiers. Consumed by a desire for revenge, he returns to the city and is taken in by a radical group. Before long, he finds himself part of a terrorist operation which will take him to London. But as the time to board the plane looms, he struggles to reconcile himself to his mission.