Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape

by Wagih Abu-Rish

In 1963, Mustafa, a male Palestinian Duke University foreign student, attended a political rally in Durham, North Carolina. While walking to the event,three men viciously attacked him and then raped him. In the days after the attack, the trauma causes him to withdraw from his girlfriend and seek a fresh start. He began the long cross-country walk to Stanford University, where previously he had been accepted.
During his travel, Mustafa faced many joys and challenges as he met with injury, hospitality and kindness, friendship, felonies, racism, and, of course, love. He met farmers, international criminals, and, incredibly, a Palestinian-American Polygamist family. Through his adventures and misadventures, he experienced the full range of human emotion, but learned that the biggest challenge was within himself. Could he reconcile his bodily desires with his wounded self-image and become a true partner to the woman he loved?

Genres: Fiction

297 pages, Hardcover

Published October 3, 2023

About the author

Wagih Abu-Rish is a Palestinian-American author and activist. He spent much of his career as a businessman, specializing in acquisitions. During a long and varied professional career, he was a foreign journalist in Beirut, Lebanon, and an ad executive on Madison Avenue in New York.

He has been active in promoting progressive causes such as democratic practices and equal rights. Among those causes, he feels strongly about the need for the liberation of women in the Middle East, which he considers to be the most overlooked and abridged human right of all.

It is his hope that this book highlights the themes he believes in. The most salient of such themes is the fact that most adherents are ignorant of the essence of their own religions. This applies equally to the adherents of Islam and to all other religions.

His second and mostly implied theme is the difficulty people have in humanizing others, whether that means another gender, ethnicity, or nationality. Such humanization is the starting point for resolving difficulties and conflicts between competing individuals, parties, and countries.

Reviews

[C. Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape is a touching book that tells the story of Mustafa, a young man who was attacked and raped by three men, and how he deals with a life-changing, traumatic experience. The story starts with Mustafa’s traumatic incident, and his journey unfolds as he deals with the aftermath. Mustafa’s experiences are relatable to anyone who has faced harassment. The author, Wagih Abu-Rish, tells the story in a way that lets us connect with Mustafa’s challenges without overwhelming us with the trauma. Even though the book deals with a difficult topic, it's a captivating and touching story.

At its heart, the book is about rediscovering oneself, finding resilience, and not giving up when life takes a dark turn. The author paints a picture of Mustafa’s life that’s honest and full of emotion, making it easy to care about the characters and their struggles. The story takes unexpected twists that keep you engaged, challenging your assumptions. Despite the challenging theme, it’s a story that encourages understanding and empathy for the emotional turmoil that comes with such experiences. Mustafa’s journey and the feelings he experiences are depicted clearly, making you cheer for him and wish for a happy ending. As you read, you’ll find yourself invested in Mustafa’s progress and the love and support he needs.

This book is skillfully written and thought-provoking. Its honesty and strong storytelling make it a meaningful journey. Mustafa’s story teaches us that the effects of harassment can touch anyone, and it encourages us to confront our difficulties and seek healing.
Wagih Abu-Rish has captured Mustafa's journey beautifully, making " Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape" a must-read for those looking for a touching and profound literary experience.

[Abhinav Bhatnagar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soul's Odyssey

In 'Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape' by Wagih Abu-Rish, readers are taken on a harrowing and ultimately uplifting journey through the aftermath of a traumatic event. Mustafa, a Palestinian student, finds his life forever altered after a vicious attack and rape during a 1963 political rally in Durham, North Carolina. What unfolds is a gripping narrative that explores the profound impact of such an unimaginable crime.
Abu-Rish's storytelling is both heart-rending and heartwarming. Mustafa's resilience and courage shine through as he embarks on a life-altering cross-country journey from North Carolina to Stanford University. We are exposed to a full spectrum of experiences, from the warmth of newfound friendships and acts of kindness to the challenges of racism, encounters with the law, and the enduring power of love.
One of the most touching aspects of the story is Mustafa's relationship with Michelle, his daughter-buddy. Their deep bond and shared decisions regarding their future resonate with readers, evoking strong emotions. Their journey together prompts us to reflect on the profound themes of forgiveness, self-identity, and the human capacity for resilience.
'Intimate Fractures' is a testament to Abu-Rish's storytelling prowess. His narrative draws readers into Mustafa's world, allowing us to explore universal themes of love, trauma, and self-discovery. As we follow Mustafa's trials and tribulations, we are reminded of the intricate nature of the human experience. Abu-Rish's elegant prose paints a vivid picture of the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
This book is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the enduring power of the human spirit. 'Intimate Fractures' is a story that lingers in the mind and heart, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after the final page.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put down Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of Rape, it was literally one thing after another for poor Mustafa. The worst part is, I know these things happen to men all the time, we just never hear that much about it because the media goes crazy over it happening to women. Men are left out most of the time and not seen as a victim. Mustafa is a young lad, going to college, experiencing his life, making friends, gets a loving girlfriend that he deems his soul mate but then is hit with a series of TRAUMATIC situations!! So if you haven't already got the idea, TRIGGER WARNINGS are issued! This is not for the faint hearted. Every time you think it's over... it's not. Something else happens to him and its literally soul crushing. All I wanted was to get through the book so he finally gets a happy ending!! I wanted him to stop running away and muster up the courage to confront those military guys for doing the unspeakable to him, I wanted him to muster up the courage to tell his girlfriend what happened because I know she wouldn't have seen him any differently. However, he does open up to a similar girl but the trauma is unbearable for him, he goes mute for a while and leaves his wonderful college life to cope with what happened. Seriously... Then it happens again!!! OMG! He really couldn't catch a break. SO, if this hasn't got you hooked yet...GO READ THIS BOOK! The ending is worth it.

[Justin Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world often hesitant to confront the harsh realities of sexual violence, especially when the victim is a man, this book emerges as a beacon of unflinching honesty and profound empathy. Author Wagih Abu-Rish masterfully crafts a narrative that delves into the complexities of trauma and healing, offering a poignant glimpse into the life of Mustafa, a Palestinian student grappling with the aftermath of a brutal assault. Set in 1963, the story follows Mustafa's journey of self-discovery and resilience as he navigates a world that often fails to acknowledge the pain of male rape victims. Mustafa's cross-country trek becomes a metaphor for his internal journey towards healing and self-acceptance. Along the way, he encounters a kaleidoscope of humanity, experiencing both kindness and cruelty, acceptance and rejection. These encounters shape his understanding of the world and his place within it, challenging his internalized shame and self-doubt. The book really showcases Mustafa's determination to confront his trauma and reclaim his identity. The portrayal of male survivorship breaks down societal barriers and offers a voice to those often silenced by stigma and shame. The feelings I had while reading this were all over the place and I came away from it with so much emotion and a better understanding of such an often shunned topic. A very powerful piece of writing.

[Jared Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape" by Wagih Abu-Rish is a significant and emotionally charged book that addresses a challenging and often overlooked subject, male sexual violence. the book focuses on the narrative and the experiences of Mustafa, a Palestinian student, as he grapples with the traumatic aftermath of a brutal assault.

The book's portrayal of Mustafa's journey, set in the context of a world that often fails to acknowledge the pain of male rape victims, is commendable for its unflinching honesty and profound empathy. It explores the complexities of trauma and healing, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of survivors.

The metaphorical journey Mustafa embarks on serves as a powerful symbol of his internal path toward healing and self-acceptance. The encounters he has along the way, encompassing both kindness and cruelty, add depth to his character and challenge societal stigmas, shame, and self-doubt.

This book appears to break down barriers and give voice to those who are often silenced by stigma and shame. It's heartening to hear that reading it elicited a range of emotions and provided a better understanding of this frequently shunned and sensitive topic.

"Intimate Fractures" is a powerful and important piece of writing that can contribute to a broader conversation about sexual violence and survivorship.

[Risa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never read a book like this before. I tend to stray away from heavy topics, but I enjoy supporting new authors, and figured it would be okay to start touching on the heavier subjects with a shorter book...and I literally couldn't put it down. I felt like every moment and every plot point was meticulously chosen to be included. Wagih really spun a magnificent and interesting story even without the main plot point of the harassment. I enjoyed every single character and felt that all of them were very uniquely their own, and all worth reading about. I was also quite interested in the setting and the year in which it was based, as books set in 1963 are not my typical read. I simply never could've come up with something like this on my own. Wagih has you rooting for Mustafa from the very beginning.
With it being such a heavy topic I appreciated both the unique third-person perspective as well as the general pace of the book. It's a quicker read, but not so quick that you feel like you're left hanging. It's a perfect balance of getting you all the necessary plot details without completely ripping your heart out. While the story could be triggering for some, it's boldly written and not a book to be skipped.

[Simone Tilmon]

The discussion of intimate traumas is never an easy one, most of us have no idea how to process the conversation itself. But what the author does with their engaging story-telling skills is thing you along the journey of the victim as they follow a path only they know back to an active state of healing.
I do appreciate following Mustafa as he navigates his trauma, entering his mindset and how he chose to deal with his deteriorating image of self, and his crumbling personal relationships. Not everyone is strong enough to bounce back emotionally from a violation of personnel quickly, having him take the time to focus on himself might help a reader to understand the importance of doing the same for themselves.
On a personal note, Mustafa has the most horrid luck. It was mentally frustrating to witness all the obstacles he encounters on his journey that threaten to harm him further. But it is heart-warming when the kind-hearted people he meets along the way actually come them and prove to him he is worth protecting. I would definitely recommend this book, it is not at all a medically bogged informational read, but rather insight surrounding a strong-willed victim and their healing journey.

[Laura Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a tough and mesmerizingly beautiful book all in one. When Mustafa is raped, his life takes a much different path than the one he was on before he was attacked. Readers travel with him in the aftermath of his trauma toward trying to find hope after the horrific event that he was lucky to live through. I am close to the subject to rape, and it's one that's tough to live and read about. But the author does an expert job at paying special mind to the reader as we follow his main character. Told in third person, which I think helps, there's just enough distance to the horror that I was able to follow Mustafa's journey to the end. And I certainly am glad I did.

This is a story of finding yourself again; of resilience; of not giving up the fight to work your way toward better days when something terrible happens to you. There's such honesty and vulnerability on the page. It's hard not to just hug the book when you're done with it. INTIMATE FRACTURES is not a light read, and it’s not intended to be. But, it’s a worthwhile and authentic read that you won’t be sorry you picked up. Well-written, well-told, and well-executed, I enjoyed my time with these characters very much.

[Arden Schraff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape is the story of Mustafa Makram, a young man from Palestine who moves to the U.S. to attend Duke University. The horrific assault he experiences early in the novel causes reverberations throughout the rest of his adult life. Author Wagih Abu-Rish utilizes excellent storytelling skills to communicate the suddenness and intensity of the violation and how altering it is to Mustafa's life and well-being. Mustafa is burdened by this unwanted trauma immediately after it occurs and carries it with him as he tries to move forward with his life. Abu-Rish paints the picture of a healing rape victim empathetically as he tells the story of Mustafa's reaction to his assault. Many sexual assault and rape narratives center around women and do not always communicate how common it is for people of a variety of identities to experience sexual assault and/or rape. This novel covers a delicate topic, one that affects many people throughout the world. Abu-Rish does a beautiful job handling the topic in a way that powerfully communicates the extent of the effect rape has on a victim.

[DBK Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate Fracture is about one man’s rape and the path his life goes on after the horrific event that happened to him. This book is told through his point of view, as it becomes a thought provoking and an eye opening experience, as he takes your emotions on a roller coaster through his story. We see the author’s character navigate his through the twisted turns, of trying to find his way back of the aftermath of rape. This all inspiring storytelling of never giving up, even in the darkest moments.

The story shows how the character is shaped by his dark shadows of shame and self loathing, to come out through to the lighter side. To push yourself, to see the better days to not live in the darkness but to see greater things ahead for him. The author shows us a character who is determined to come out the other side of humanity as he take a different path the he originally set out to take. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to come out of the darkness and into the light.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took a left turn just when I thought it was getting predictable. And I was glued to the pages from there. I read that this was a tale about the fractures in one’s psyche after a rape, but I assumed too much. I won’t spoil the plot for you.

In “Intimate Fractures,” Wagih Abu-Rish spins for us the tale of Mustafa, a Palestinian man who comes to Durham, North Carolina to attend Duke University. He falls in love with Zeina, an American with an Arab name, and cannot imagine his life without her. But tragedy befalls them, and Mustafa finds himself cast adrift – not knowing how to heal.

Abu-Rish’s writing is very matter-of-fact. The characters are well-developed, and the story is tragic, painful, and heartwarming. I enjoyed this book not just because it challenged my assumptions, but because it was painfully honest and what I can only imagine is the mental minefield of sexual assault.

[Shawnae Aiu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intimate Fractures: The Aftermath of a Rape written by Wagih Abu-Rish is a book about Mustafa. Mustafa is a man that was raped by three horrible men and this story shares how he deals with this tragic event in his life. This is life-changing for Mustafa and how his life unfolds is inspiring.

The characters in this book are well-written and touch your heart. Mustafa's challenges and choices are difficult but his strength of character and honest way of dealing with his emotions have you completely engaged in his journey. This is not an easy topic for people to face and Abu-Rish weaves a captivating version for readers to feel the horror of rape and the aftermath without absolutely devastating his audience's mind.

I highly recommend this book for anyone facing struggles of their own and looking for a way to handle them with integrity and heart. You have a choice when life gives you a rough hand, what path you take is how your ending will be--happy or a forever victim.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story instantly pulls you in; the characters are well-developed, and I immediately felt connected to them, wanting to know how everything would unfold. The book is about a college student, Mustafa, who seemingly had all his dreams come true. His father didn’t want him to study in America, but after a change of heart, Mustafa was excited to be heading to Duke. His good friend is already there to welcome him to his new life, and Mustafa quickly falls passionately in love with a classmate.

Tragically, while walking to an event, Mustafa is attacked by three men and raped. The incident sends him into a tailspin of confusion and despair, and he does the only thing he can think to do—run away from his life. He begins a cross-country journey to Stanford. While Mustafa encounters many adventures, he wrestles with the aftermath that comes with trauma and the hard road of healing. The story is eye-opening, relevant, and shares an important experience that is not often talked about.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story started off sad, but ended on a very high and happy note. At the beginning, my heart was wrenched from side to side by the main character's love life and eventual disturbing encounter. I found myself excited for Mustafa and Zeina's relationship. I wanted to see where it would go. Looking at the title, I suspected something bad would happen in their relationship, but I was shocked when I read what actually happened. I will not spoil or write about the triggering moment here, but I personally felt the moment was well-written. The author took care to provide a description of the moment without using too triggering images that would make me uncomfortable to read. I found myself very sad for Mustafa and was happy when in the end, he was able to be happy, despite all of the tragedy in his life.

[Mike Bratek · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read.

There is so much emotion in the descriptiveness of characters and feelings. Love is important to each of the persons in the story and displays it well.
One thing I didn't like was that they made Mustafa too much like a marter, as if they praised him way too much in the story. Other than that, I enjoyed this book immensely!