Susan Muaddi Darraj creëert proza dat duikt in de levens van vrouwen en gezinnen, vaak met de nadruk op de Palestijnse cultuur en diaspora-ervaringen. Haar werken worden gekenmerkt door sterke personages en lyrische taal, die de complexiteit van identiteit en verbondenheid onderzoekt. Darraj richt zich op verhalend vertellen dat het onzichtbare verlicht en stem geeft aan gemarginaliseerde gemeenschappen. Haar schrijven is diep humanistisch en resoneert met lezers die op zoek zijn naar authentieke en inzichtelijke literaire reizen.
Set in the Palestinian village of Tel al-Hilou, this short story collection delves into the lives of its inhabitants across generations and geographies. It intricately weaves themes of memory, belonging, and connection, revealing the profound and multifaceted concept of home. Through rich narratives, the stories illuminate the struggles and resilience of a community shaped by its history and experiences.
The narrative follows four Arab-American women—Hanan, Nadia, Reema, and Aliyah—who navigate the complexities of identity and belonging. As they grapple with their cultural roots and the challenges of life in the United States, each character embarks on a personal journey to find a sense of home amidst the tensions between their heritage and new surroundings. The book offers a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience and the search for connection in a divided world.
Behind You Is the Sea is a compelling debut that fearlessly challenges stereotypes surrounding Palestinian culture.
Farah Hajjar is just starting at her new school when something terrible happens - her house burns down. Even worse, the house fire may be her fault. When her family moves to temporary housing, Farah feels the guilt piling up. Luckily Farah finds comfort in writing, and she channels her energy into starting a creative writing club at her new school. But can Farah convince people at her new science-focused school to support it?