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samisal's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
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
4.75
This book was beautifully written and I think tells a distinctly Arab story in a distinctly Arab storytelling style. The story her uncle tells throughout was one of my favorite parts and I think that viewing it as merely an interlude rather than a second thread weaving one story with the primary narrative will limit both your enjoyment and understanding of the story. This story asks you to believe in its magic, but it is not a fairytale and it is not an easy read. It is emotional and intense and ultimately it is a story about exile, intergenerational violence, and the relationships we build with others who understand how these things have shaped us. I’m not sure how I feel about all parts of this story, but on the whole it’s a wonderful novel. I hope that people reading this will take it seriously and be open to the distinct cultural model of storytelling it lets you in on, otherwise I can’t imagine it being a very interesting read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Rape, Adult/minor relationship, Death, Death of parent, Violence, Police brutality, and Infidelity
Minor: Domestic abuse, War, and Kidnapping
linesiunderline's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
This is an unusual, introspective, quiet, character-driven story that pulls you inside a culture and community and also leaves you thinking about loss and exile and the experience of immigration. Oh, and there is romance. And such evocative, sensuous writing - about food and the LA neighborhood where it takes place. I am always pulled in by a story that takes place in a restaurant and this novel is a creation as memorable and complex and beautiful as the dishes we read about throughout the story. It’s lovely and I’m glad I discovered this backlist gem.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Grief, Kidnapping, and Death
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