A review by booksandbongs
As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

challenging emotional inspiring sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

“This blanket of darkness isn’t our forever. Their evil isn’t forever. Not as long as we have our faith and Syria’s history running in our veins” 

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh is a speculative fiction novel set during the time of the Syrian Revolution. 

The book follows Salama, a young pharmacy student who finds her world turned upside down after the Arab Spring occurs and her home town becomes a battleground. Katouh’s writing is beautiful and immersive, capturing the characters feelings and painting a picture of Syrian reality.

I think it is important to call attention to how the characters are written. Salama and Layla are free spirited hijabi girls who live life to the fullest, Kenan rejects toxic masculinity, and every Syrian in the story loves their country and will do anything for freedom. The halal love story between Salama and Kenan was incredibly well done, their connection felt so deep and genuine. 

It is so refreshing to see positive Muslim representation that breaks away from stereotypes. I graduated from college with minors in Middle East studies as well as Arabic language, so these topics are very near and dear to my heart. 

While the story itself is fictional, the horrors and events in the book are a very real reality for Syria. I was aware of the atrocities happening, and this book still shook me to my core.

Lemon Trees encapsulates love, joy, fear and grief, stolen moments of happiness, and so much hope for a better future. This story made me smile while crying and feel so many emotions. Whatever you do, read this book. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️