Book for gift -please help:)

[Kas]

I'm looking for a book I could give to a friend.


My idea is either fiction( but realistic fiction) or reportages- set in contemporary world or in the past, geographically best (but not necessarily) in Central or East Europe or Africa. Even if sad, not depressing , maybe with humorous elements (making movie reference more of comedy-drama than drama). Best showing social situation or issues.
She likes Hrabal books a lot if that's any help.


Does anyone have any ideas? I will be grateful for help

 

[Tellenbach]

Read some of the reviews for Barbara Kingsolver's "The Poisonwood Bible".

 

[Abendrot]

The Assassin's Song by M.G. Vassanji.

This one's about an Indian man who immigrates to America to break with his culture and his heritage, but finds himself inexplicably drawn back to it. It also provides a commentary on the religious conflict between the Hindus and the Muslims. It's not quite depressing but rather somber.

Here's a review of it:

Review: The Assassin's Song by MG Vassanji | Books | The Guardian