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jayisreading's review against another edition
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
This impactful short story collection captures everyday life and experiences in contemporary Sudan (particularly in Khartoum), reflecting on different issues in the lives of each character (big and small), that sometimes gesture at greater systemic problems. I really need to emphasize that these stories are mere glimpses, with some of them only being a few pages long. While I was disappointed that some stories were too short for my taste (the collection itself is just over seventy pages, to give you an idea), I have to commend Mamoun (and, of course, the translator, Jaquette) for achieving a particular emotional depth in so few words. It wasn’t the case for every story, but there were a few that I found particularly impactful, such as “Edges” (which might have been my favorite).
Content Warnings
Minor: War and Death
morebedsidebooks's review against another edition
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death of parent, Chronic illness, Mental illness, and Grief
Minor: Animal death, Death, Physical abuse, and War
kibbles15's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
This is book of short stories shedding light about various situations in Sudan. All of the stories will make you think and some will tug at your emotions. In terms of writing, the author uses a very artistic style. Although, I do appreciate the artistry, I found that it made some of the stories a bit confusing. (I am still not sure what she was trying to imply with the stories about the fly on the bus.) Overall, I liked the book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Chronic illness, Child death, Death, Mental illness, and Death of parent
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