In Khaled Hosseini’s novel A Thousand Splendid Suns, the term ‘Jo’ is an affectionate and intimate term used to express love or endearment. It is often translated as ‘dear’ or ‘sweetheart’ and is used to signify a close bond between characters.
The use of ‘Jo’ underscores the deep personal relationships central to the narrative, particularly between the female protagonists, Mariam and Laila. It highlights the warmth and affection that can exist even in the backdrop of hardship and struggle, emphasizing the theme of love and solidarity in the face of adversity. Throughout the book, moments where characters use this term illustrate their emotional connections and help to enrich the storytelling, making the struggles they endure even more poignant.