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4.57 AVERAGE
4.57 AVERAGE
this book was so complex. it reminded me in parts of the handmaid's tale (particularly the bits in the cube), but of course it is so much closer to reality than the handmaid's tale/makes me think about how the fear in that story is drawn from pre-existing fear and horror. I love how family relationships and love in a 'loveless world' are portrayed so much, across time and space. nahr has truly been through so much and this was painful to read in places. while some things she says/others around her did were difficult to read and i wasn't sure if I personally agreed with them, the book does paint a picture of a societal context that lets you understand where these things come from. there is so much pain and injustice and anguish written throughout the fabric of this story and it truly does feel like a struggle against the loveless world. it also does a lot in terms of humanising palestinians in a world that so often dehumanises them.
This book felt like a Hosseini book and I loved it. I was worried, at first, about the author also being the narrator, but Abulhawa does a very good job, even if some of the voices were a little awkward at first, you got used to them.
I appreciated a book from the perspective of a Palestinian, something I wouldn't normally read. I really liked the build up to how Nahr ended up in prison with the mixed timeline. This story felt like it could be based on a true story. I also enjoyed a glimpse into Middle Eastern family dynamics, something that I don't get real life exposure to, helping me expand my own horizons (as reading does).
HIGHLY recommend this book, even if it contains difficult themes.
I appreciated a book from the perspective of a Palestinian, something I wouldn't normally read. I really liked the build up to how Nahr ended up in prison with the mixed timeline. This story felt like it could be based on a true story. I also enjoyed a glimpse into Middle Eastern family dynamics, something that I don't get real life exposure to, helping me expand my own horizons (as reading does).
HIGHLY recommend this book, even if it contains difficult themes.
challenging
emotional
informative
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A must-read. Reading this well thought out and well researched historical fiction taught me so much about the lives of Palestinian refugees and how the statehood of Israel has chipped away at their humanity, dignity, and land. You learn about the little indignities along with the massive atrocities committed against Palestine. Beautiful story writing and it’s impossible not to fall in love with the badass Nahr. I will always remember this book.
dark
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This book is almost like reading a memoir. It's such a good book! This book gives a perspective of what Palestinians experience under occupation and resistance. In this book, you learn about Palestinian culture as well.
The main character Nahr is a political prisoner in the cube exploring her journey in life being displaced along with her family. Nahr experiences many hardships and struggles while under the occupation, but still has the courage and strength to fight. Eventually Nahr joins a resistance that led her to being caught and held as a prisoner.
The main character Nahr is a political prisoner in the cube exploring her journey in life being displaced along with her family. Nahr experiences many hardships and struggles while under the occupation, but still has the courage and strength to fight. Eventually Nahr joins a resistance that led her to being caught and held as a prisoner.
WHEW that ending gave me chills. This book is phenomenally written. The narrative was breathtakingly beautiful throughout. Abulhawa is an amazing storyteller; the novel's structure is just pure genius. Even though this is a fictional story, I learned a lot from Nahr. Insightful, witty and honest, Nahr's words have taught me to never lose hope. With the context of Israel's occupation and consistent surveillance over Palestine, the implications for Nahr and her loved ones, caused by these events, were what stood out most. The ways in which they were dehumanised by Israeli soldiers, and in Israeli prisons, really resonates with the genocide currently happening in Gaza. Because of this, I feel like everyone should read this book as a reminder that Palestinians are human just like us, and they deserve to have the privilege of living without fear that many of us take for granted in the West.
I really enjoyed this audiobook. It seemed like a long narration but something different happened every chapter that held my attention. The flashbacks were great as the storyline and ending weaved in and out. Nothing was predictable and the ending was incredible and heartbreaking but in a satisfying way for a conclusive ending. Amazing story.
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Such an important story for people to read. Abulhawa expertly blended fictional and non-fictional elements to create a poignant and compelling story. Nahr’s character was complex, sharp, and smart as a whip. Her tragedies and traumas force the reader to think deeply about the ongoing occupation of Palestine, the plight of displaced peoples, and the challenging decisions that are forced upon those who deserve so much more than the hand they’ve been dealt by their oppressors. A must read!