Heavy, heartbreaking, shocking, and earnest. I don't think I ever cried so hard at a book, ever. This was a beautiful love letter to Syria and it really captured the horrific, ugly, and evil beast that is war. Salama is one of the best characters I've had the pleasure of reading. She was resilient and hearty and courageous and I admire her deeply. This is a emotional read but you need to read it. 5 stars isn't high enough.