3.5/5

I love how accessible and compelling Rum’s writing and storytelling are. Having read her other two novels, this one feels like a watered down version. I think it’s a good place to start for readers curious about her work or for those who want an introductory read on Palestinian diaspora

I really love the idea of connecting the loss of one’s mother land to the complex mother-daughter dynamics. This is explored quite well through the novella and also in Rum’s novels

I do always feel like her books are written for celebrity book club. There’s nothing wrong with that, but sometimes I wish there is more gray area explored and not just the cookie cutter “Arabs are oppressive to women”