Imm Mathilda: A Bethlehem Mother's Diary

by Alison Jones Nassar, Fred Strickert

This is the voice of a wife and mother, an American expatriate living with her Palestinian husband and their young children in occupied Bethlehem during the incursions of the Israeli army following the uprising known as the Al Aqsa Intifada. Alison describes the daily existence of innocent Palestinian civilians—a life of curfews, checkpoints, and closures, which produce relentless fear and humiliation. Her e-mail journal reveals her attempt to find reason for hope that one day normalcy will come to the land called Holy. *Study guide available.

244 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2003

Reviews

[Holly S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The memoir is based on the email journals of an American expat living in Bethlehem with her Christian Palestinian husband and their children. Even though this book is not quite at the same caliber as others, I was still riveted to her descriptions of daily life—both the joys and obstacles—of raising a family while living under occupation. She recounts how the curfews, road blocks & military violence affected her life and those around her. She discusses in detail the 39-day Israeli siege of the Church of Nativity in 2002. I recommend this book to anyone who would like to learn more about the Palestinian perspective.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a look into the Israeli/Palestinian conflict told by an American woman living in the middle of it all. This is one of the best books I have ever read. And I would recommend it to anyone and everyone.

[Jaclyn Biedronski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alison Jones Nassar's 'Imm Mathilda' is an incredibly moving account of resilience and hope amidst the turmoil of occupied Bethlehem. Her poignant portrayal of life under curfews and checkpoints is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. This book beautifully captures the enduring strength of Palestinian civilians and their quest for normalcy in a land fraught with challenges.