Books Like...

You Exist Too Much by Zaina Arafat is a novel that delves into the life of an unnamed bisexual Palestinian American woman who grapples with love addiction, mental health struggles, an emotionally abusive mother, and the clash of her cultural upbringing. The narrative flows in a non-linear structure, offering glimpses into the protagonist's chaotic life through flashbacks to her childhood in the Middle East. As the protagonist navigates through self-destructive behaviors, the reader follows her journey of self-exploration, self-reflection, and a quest for self-improvement amidst a backdrop of emotional turmoil and cultural identity crisis.

Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad follows Sonia, a British Palestinian actress who returns to Palestine after a failed relationship. She gets involved in a production of Hamlet in the West Bank, where she navigates the complexities of Palestinian identity and the challenges of mounting a play in a politically charged environment. The novel delves into themes of self-autonomy, Palestinian struggles, and the desire for recognition and humanity amidst conflict, all portrayed with beautiful prose and a nuanced portrayal of daily life under occupation.

'Minor Detail' by Adania Shibli is a novella split into two halves, with the first part focusing on an Israeli platoon in 1949 capturing a young Palestinian woman, while the second part follows an Arab woman in the 1970s becoming obsessed with the incident and deciding to investigate. The story explores themes of displacement, violence against women, and the repercussions of historical events on present-day individuals. The writing style transitions from a matter-of-fact, flat manner in the first part to a more nuanced, personal approach in the second part, providing contrasting perspectives on the same event.

'The Beauty of Your Face' by Sahar Mustafah is a compelling and emotional novel that follows the journey of Afaf Rahman, a Palestinian American woman, as she navigates racism, family trauma, and religious discrimination in America. The story alternates between the present-day, where Afaf faces a mass shooting at the Muslim school she leads, and the past, delving into her childhood experiences and struggles. Through rich characters and poignant storytelling, the book explores themes of faith, family, identity, and the challenges of assimilation as an immigrant in the U.S. Mustafah's writing style is described as nuanced, detailed, and ultimately hopeful, offering a suspenseful and enlightening read that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

'Against the Loveless World' by Susan Abulhawa is a powerful novel that follows the life of Nahr, a Palestinian woman who navigates through war, displacement, and personal struggles. The story delves into Nahr's experiences as a refugee, her imprisonment, her resilience, and her involvement in active resistance activities against Israeli occupation. The book is structured to explore Nahr's past through memories while she reflects on her life in a space called the Cube, providing a poignant and honest look at the Palestinian experience.

The novel is praised for its stunningly gorgeous writing, intricate plot, and engaging momentum that captivates readers intellectually, emotionally, and politically. Through the character of Nahr and the portrayal of Palestine as a central element in the story, Abulhawa skillfully weaves a narrative that sheds light on the struggles, courage, and humanity of Palestinians, offering a captivating and eye-opening exploration of the complexities of life in the Middle East.

"Men in the Sun" by Ghassan Kanafani is a poignant novella that explores the harrowing experiences of Palestinian refugees. The narrative follows four men who, driven by desperation and the desire for a better life, undertake a perilous journey to be smuggled across the Iraqi-Kuwaiti border. Their lives are drastically altered by the forces of imperialism and colonization, showcasing the struggles faced by displaced individuals seeking purpose in a world that has turned against them. Kanafani's writing is characterized by a spare and straightforward style that effectively communicates the deep emotional and physical hardships endured by his characters.

The book serves not only as a story of individual suffering but also as a broader allegory for the plight of disenfranchised and displaced people around the world. The brevity of the novella does not diminish its impact; instead, it allows for a powerful and heart-wrenching exploration of themes such as migration, colonization, and the search for identity. Kanafani's ability to convey complex emotions in a succinct manner makes "Men in the Sun" a compelling read that resonates with current global issues related to refugees and displacement.

Salt Houses is a multigenerational novel that follows the journey of a Palestinian family from the 1950s to present day, spanning across various countries such as Nablus, Kuwait, Jordan, Paris, and beyond. The story delves into themes of displacement, war, family bonds, and cultural identity. Through vivid descriptions and multiple perspectives, readers are taken on a journey through the Yacoub family's experiences of leaving their home, navigating different cultures, and trying to maintain a sense of belonging amidst constant upheavals.

The narrative of Salt Houses is crafted through well-developed characters and a seamless blend of different generations and cultures. The book explores the complexities of family dynamics, the impact of war on individuals, and the struggle to find a sense of home in a world marked by constant change. With lyrical prose and poignant storytelling, Hala Alyan presents a compelling tale that offers insights into the Palestinian diaspora and the challenges faced by those forced to uproot their lives multiple times due to conflict and displacement.

'The Arsonists' City' by Hala Alyan is a multi-generational family saga that follows a Lebanese family as they navigate their relationships and secrets across countries like the United States, Lebanon, and Syria. The story revolves around the family patriarch, Idris, who decides to sell his childhood home in Beirut, leading to a gathering of the far-flung family members for a belated memorial. As the family reunites under one roof, the complexities of their relationships unfold, delving into themes of guilt, atonement, and unconditional love.

The novel is praised for its beautifully crafted storytelling that weaves together themes of generational trauma, sibling rivalry, family secrets, and the impact of war on individuals living in Lebanon and Syria. Through rich character development and intricate relationships, 'The Arsonists' City' explores the dynamics of a second-generation immigrant family, reflecting on themes of love, music, intrigue, and compassion, while delving into the characters' past and present struggles.

'A Woman Is No Man' by Etaf Rum is a heart-wrenching novel that delves into the lives of three generations of Palestinian women living in Brooklyn. The story revolves around the struggles faced by these women in breaking free from the oppressive cultural norms and abusive relationships they are trapped in. Through shifting viewpoints, the author paints a vivid picture of the challenges these women endure, from arranged marriages to domestic abuse, while also highlighting themes of resilience, strength, and the desire for individual freedom.

The narrative of 'A Woman Is No Man' unfolds through the voices of different family members, spanning across time frames and generations. It explores the themes of cultural pressure, family traditions, and the complexities of women's roles within the Palestinian community. The author, Etaf Rum, skillfully weaves together a tale of sacrifice, duty, and the quest for autonomy, shedding light on the emotional turmoil and struggles faced by these women as they navigate between their heritage and their desire for independence.

"Behind You Is the Sea" by Susan Muaddi Darraj is a collection of interconnected short stories that portrays the lives of a Palestinian American family living in Baltimore. Each chapter presents a different character's perspective, showcasing their struggles with identity, family ties, and cultural roots amidst the backdrop of forced exile and adaptation to American life. The stories are rich and vivid, filled with humor and deep insights into the complexities of family dynamics in a small Palestinian community.

Darraj's writing style is thoughtful and poignant, capturing the raw emotions and intricacies of her characters' lives. The narratives flow seamlessly, resembling the structure of acclaimed films like "Magnolia" and "Crash," where familiar names reappear unexpectedly throughout the stories. Despite the heavy themes, there is an undercurrent of beauty and healing, making the book both compelling and easy to read.