A review by libraryoflanelle
Forest of Noise: Poems by Mosab Abu Toha

5.0

I first read ‘Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear’ by Mosab Abu Toha towards the end of 2023, and it immediately became one of my favourite poetry collections ever. So, the moment I heard about the existence of ‘Forest of Noise’, I knew I had to prioritise it. Of course, it did not disappoint. 

 

I find it nearly impossible to review poetry collections like this one because no words of mine can accurately capture how incredibly devastating, painful, and beautiful Mosab’s writing is. 

 

I continue to believe that poetry is one of the most visceral and powerful ways to learn about and connect with experiences so vastly different from my own. The words that Mosab shares with us, both in this collection and in ‘Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear’, are incredibly raw, radical, and paradigm-shifting in nature. 

 

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I am eternally grateful to Palestinian poets and creatives all over the world who continue to share their pain and truth with us, even as the world continues to let them down! 

 

If you’re looking for a place to start, or a place to continue your Palestinian reading and learning, look no further. 

 

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc. All opinions are my own