All the cities and villages as well as massacres are real places and events. The characters are fictional but fascinating. Even Handala/Hanzala and the assassinated artist fit into the story. You'll trace the histories of several permanent refugees and get a look at the variety of thought. Some still believe they will return and have become lawyers and architects, engineers and poets to further that aim. Some soured on return when UNRWA was formed in 1949 and came to terms with limited rights in other counties or becoming a provider for extended family in a gulf country. 
This is a pretty good one for both picking up a feel for the disaster in 1948 and Palestinian culture. A solid story with compelling characters.