Reviews

These Impossible Things by Salma El-Wardany

bmpicc's review

2.0

This didn't do it for me. If anyone reads it and loves it, I'd be curious to hear your thoughts. Honestly... I just felt stressed out (*and not the good stressed you get from reading a thriller*) the whole time I was reading it.

bubblybing's review

5.0

I read this book after seeing it on a list of books written by Arab authors in honor of Arab Heritage Month. I thought it would be a nice little look into a culture different from my own. But instead, I had moments where I’d have to stop and process what was written because the author was able to perfectly capture dynamics, situations, and moments that I have also experienced.

I don’t think I’d ever recommend this book to anyone, because it feels so personal to me that I couldn’t risk someone not loving it. And I can’t imagine that I’d love it as much at any other point in my life.

shelvedbyamanda's review

challenging emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

smalltownbookmom's review against another edition

4.0

Such a beautiful story about the bonds of female friendship and the ways friendships get tested over time. Jenna, Malak and Bilquis are three Muslim women with a seemingly unbreakable bond but their relationships get tested as the women experience breakups, move away and find new jobs.

I really loved the way the author explores the challenges of interracial and interfaith relationships. Both Malak and Bilquis fall for white, non-Muslim men but only Bilquis has the courage to break tradition and marry her boyfriend. Malak breaks up with hers in order to find a 'good' Muslim man and ends up stuck in an abusive relationship in Cairo.

Full of heart and heartache, this story will make you feel all the feels. Highly recommended and great on audio!

CW: rape, domestic partner abuse, abortion

kinadianpt's review

4.0

If there were half stars, I'd give this book 4.5.

breannasbooks's review against another edition

medium-paced

3.0

azimmerman73's review

5.0

A beautifully written coming of age story. I love the way the plot developed and enjoyed the character development. Ultimately loved the theme of the importance of great friends❤️ would definitely recommend!

kxmulligan79's review

fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

ebroeffle's review against another edition

5.0

This book was incredible.

evermorebc's review

4.25

8/8 completion rate. Nominated by KC