When The Haboob Sings

by Nejoud Al-Yagout

When Dunya Khair writes a controversial article in the newspaper challenging the status quo in her country, the response—ranging from adulation to death threats—is swift. Faced with the dissolution of familial ties and the prospective collapse of her marriage, alongside a looming nervous breakdown, Dunya's consequent actions exemplify both the strength and frailty of the human spirit. When the Haboob Sings paints a poignant picture of a woman whose unshakeable resolve to preserve her authenticity costs her more than she ever imagined.

Winner Indie Discovery Awards, 2020
Gold Winner Reader's Favorite Award in Fiction: Religious Theme

Genres: Middle East, Fiction

278 pages, Paperback

Published May 20, 2019

Reviews

[Sujoya - theoverbookedbibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

“All my articles had been safe, but it was that day in a room filled with men that things changed. Perhaps you are wondering what is unsafe in terms of writing? Well, in my country, it is best to stay away from two topics: politics and religion. Unless, of course, you are showering politicians and religion with praise. To be fair, my first foray into unsafe writing was neither about politics nor religion, but about gender equality. Still, in a patriarchy, anything regarding women is teetering on the domain of politics and religion.”

Thirty-two-year-old freelance journalist Dunya Khair is jailed after her controversial article on apostasy is published. This is not the first time Dunya’s writing has landed her in trouble. Before her article on apostasy, she received much criticism and threats (and “silent support”) after the publication of her article criticizing the archaic beliefs and opinions about women that are shared by men in a patriarchal society even though women have progressed considerably in terms of their contribution to society and even hold seats in the Parliament.

“ ‘Do you know what you are? You are a haboob, a dust storm. A destructive haboob that obscures vision. But even the most powerful haboob has no chance but to disappear in time. Even the most powerful haboob is forgotten.’ ”

However, the backlash from her most recent article on apostasy has been brutal resulting not only in her incarceration but also has a far-reaching impact on her family and personal relationships. The novel opens with her in jail, counting the days with no contact with her loved ones but her imprisonment is just the beginning and as the narrative progresses we see how Dunya’s life is upended in more ways than she had bargained for. She is eventually granted an Amiri pardon after a few month in jail and she becomes aware of the international attention her case had garnered. Dunya uses this to her advantage and remains committed to highlighting the ills in her society – the patriarchy, the hypocrisy, the discrimination and the censorship that is a part of her world- despite the backlash and the threats to her life. But Dunya’s world is gradually falling apart – her familial relationships have suffered and her marriage is on the brink of collapse. As her mental health deteriorates and she requires professional help, the author turns the narrative towards the stigma attached to mental illness and how difficult it is to ask for and receive help. We witness how she is willing to sacrifice everything she has for her convictions and while her road to recovery is filled with fear and trauma, she remains committed to her cause.

“But wait a minute… I was better off when I was self-engrossed. Or maybe I was not? Was I ever normal? And what is normal? Is Earth not just one big mental asylum? Are we not just on varying ends of the insanity spectrum?”

Overall, When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout is an intense and compelling read. Narrated in the first person, Dunya’s pain is palpable and the author is unflinching as she describes Dunya’s mental state as she falls into deep depression and struggles as she grapples with all that is going on in her life. The author tackles many sensitive topics in this novel - women’s rights, faith and religious freedom, misogyny, patriarchal societal norms and mental health to name a few. The novel starts slow and Dunya’s description of her life in prison initially might come across as a bit rambling but is justified as it gives us a hint of her mental state and foreshadows the downward spiral that would follow. The writing becomes even more powerful as the narrative progresses. The novel has some very dark and disturbing moments and at times felt a little too heavy. Given the subject matter, this was not unexpected. Overall, this is a thought-provoking read- the kind of story that stays with you long after you finish the book.

“This aggression I am facing from society is cult-like. The treatment of those who leave the fold is cult-like. These are grown men threatening a defenseless woman because she has chosen to live by her own set of beliefs. All I want is the freedom to believe or disbelieve. Is that too much to ask?”

[Constantine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2
Genre: Literary Fiction

Synopsis:
A controversial article in the local newspaper causes lots of trouble and problems to its writer Dunya Khair. This is the story of a woman who tries to be her genuine self in a society that operates with a high degree of hypocrisy. Dunya finds herself alone fighting the outer world specifically her society & the chorus that is going on inside her own head. The cost is too much to predict or bear.

Book Structure:
The book is around 278 pages which makes it a fast read. It has many chapters but they are not numbered and are short in size. The story is told from the perspective of the protagonist Dunya Khair. It is a first-person narration. The author here has taken basically four different approaches in writing her book, narration, dialogue, diary writing, and emails. The first 50% of the story is heavier on narration with some moderate dialogue present. The second half of it is a mixture of all four types. The narration at many times felt like the reader was sitting with the character and she was talking to him & telling him his story. Sometimes it felt strange as if I was reading a non-fiction book thinking that all these things happened to the author of the book but then I get back to the story and realize this is a fictional character that is talking and not the author herself.

Pros:
- The book tackles many issues that are present where the author lives and other issues that can be related to by everybody regardless of where they live. important subjects like feminism, religious freedom, apostasy, freedom of press, sexuality, depression, anxiety, mental health, etc. Some are highlighted more while others were just on the side. Another important subject it tackles is the hypocrisy & the double standards in the Arab world. This quote from the book clearly summarizes it "Why do we do whatever we want to do abroad as long as we hide who we are here?"

- Nejoud Al-Yagout, the author has done a very good job in making this character-driven story very relevant in our times. Especially with how courageous authors and journalists face different risks and death threats be it from people in the society or the government itself. And this is applicable in every part of the world even the United States with a president who keeps calling the press fake news. Not to forget the mention of how another journalist was killed brutally in his own country's embassy with all the world watching and doing nothing including the States.

Cons:
- I wish the author added more than that one article that got the character in such trouble. I mean when one thinks about it, it feels a bit exaggerated that only one article has turned everything upside down for the protagonist. While reading the book one would think that the character is kind of an activist, but unfortunately, that was not the case as the character had the majority of her work happening inside her brain only (if we disregard the article). She was thinking a lot, questioning everything but those questions especially the bigger ones remained inside her head. As a reader, I still feel the author needed to add more events leading to the arrest of the main character and getting famous. All the dramatic events that followed her arrest did not feel justified to what she did even for Kuwait (Which I think is the country that the character was living in).

- There are times I felt things were getting repetitive, be it the character questioning herself, her family, and her society the same questions again and again. Or her babbling which the character herself admitted to doing. The babbling could be an intentional thing by the author to show the character's mental state but the repetitive questioning might be just a mishap.

Final Thought:
When the Haboob Sings is a relevant book today and an important one too. Different readers can interpret this story according to their own beliefs. Some might consider the character as mentally ill and others will prefer to call her society the ill one! I picked to read this because of the subject and the beautiful title. It gives the reader something to explore about other societies that one is not living in but also confirms that no matter where are located we all share the same insecurities, risks, and vulnerabilities. I give this book a strong 3.5 stars out of 5.0.

Many thanks to BookSirens and the publisher for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest & unbiased review.

[Ruchi Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up after seeing the picture and I am glad that I picked this up. I absolutely loved this one. After a really long time I read such good book. I fell in love with the very first chapter of the book as it’s the description of prison life by protagonist. I liked it as I am watching “Orange is the new black” series simultaneously. The protagonist of the story is Dunya Khair. She is journalist by profession. Generally she writes article about gender equal, male chauvinistic mentality of the society, prevalence of religion and it’s bad impact on human and society that created controversies. I am in love of the writing. Here are the few examples that are my favourite

“I do not want to believe that God puts us in hell for what we eat or drink or what we do or which gender we love or how we worship. I do not want to believe in a God who has created hell.”

“God, I hope you’re not the God of religion, of any religion. I hope you are who I hope you are.”

If we talk overall, I loved the plot, it’s unique and amazing. The narration style of the author is amazing that immediately catches the attention of the reader. Like I fell in love with her writing just by reading first page. There are lots of twists and turn plotted. Overall I enjoyed reading it very much. Every emotions I felt that author wanted to convey. It’s like I can’t get the story out of my head for a long time after finishing the book. Good one. Definitely recommended.

[Mr Shahabi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I always like to hear Nujood speak, shes a careful listener and polite speaker which manage to absorb and appreciate everything around her form sights and sounds and talks to words. Etc

That beauty is not present in her book, the Contents are highly controversial, which I admire, but the narration and writing didn't match that momentum unfortunately, I just couldn't see someone who defy an entire nation of traditions and society to fall a humble and helpless victim to the talk of people and who's too weak to even allow her husband, whom she's in almost platonic relationship with. To leave.

But, I see many improvement over the previouse works I've read for her, so Il always look forward to her writings.

Drink Tea

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an incredibly significant book that deals with a critically important subject. With the beginning of the Arab Springs there was just the slightest opening of minds towards freedom in some countries. Since those early days there have been strides forward and large steps back.



One of the most contentious issues that exist in some countries is the rights and place of women in their society.



This book tells the tale of a woman who bravely decides to flout convention and write about freedom of religious choice. The harrowing consequences that follow are both eye-opening and off putting. The author is callously jailed, and her family is besmirched with scorn thus her own familial connections are shattered. The ending is again extremely, sadly realistic. Women in some of these countries, who are brave enough to risk it all for the sake of freedom, are modern-day Joan of Arcs. The strength of the human spirit is shown to be boundless in this work. If only the leaders of certain Desert Kingdoms could read this book, then perhaps change could come at more than a snail's pace.



A powerful book.



My Rating: 4.5 stars



Reviewed by: Mr. N



This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because of the subject matter. Unfortunately, I didn't like the author's style of writing and that decreased my "enjoyment" of this disturbing novel. "Haboob" explores what it means to be a woman in a strict, religious culture (in this instance, a Middle Eastern Islamic culture, presumably Kuwait, from hints in the text), and how even the men are constrained by the culture. People in this book seem to be either zealots or hypocrites/cowards (showing themselves to the world as conforming religiously and socially, but doing what they want in the privacy of their own home), and not a whole lot in between. The main point of the book seems to be to show the tragic consequences of honestly revealing your doubts in public in such a society, reinforcing why so many people opt to publicly conform.

Many thanks to Edelweiss+and Gatekeeper Press for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.

[A Cannady · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a hard time believing that “When the Haboob Sings” by Nejoud Al-Yagout was purely fictional, since it was written so beautifully and honestly. In this book, our hero, Dunya Khair, tackles the world-wide problem of being a woman considered to be less than a man, but as a journalist, she does not back down from challenging the status quo of her culture. Because she is in the Middle East, though, this challenge is not just brave, it’s dangerous. Khair publishes an article that leads to a completely new path where she can make a change in her society, but to do so, she is faced with death threats, losing her family, and a serious backlash of anger against her for her beliefs and daring to publish them. It may be a work of fiction, but the author knows what she is talking about and relays the topic in such a manner that the reader feels like part of Khair’s life.

[Jerry Olasakinju · Rating 5 out of 5]

What rights do women have in countries where religious oppression is rife and unending? A daredevil woman like Dunya Khair, the protagonist of this story, often faces acrimonious attacks in places where women are regarded as second-hand citizens with little or no human rights!
When Dunya Khair pens a controversial article in the newspaper castigating the status quo in her country, she finds herself overwhelmed with unexpected consequences: From death threats, divorce to a nervous breakdown.
The tone of this story is firm, but it lacks the appropriate emotions it requires to make readers fully sympathize with Dunya. I think the diction rings true, and the tempo surreal.
In real life, Dunya Khair should be brand “The woman of steel.” Her resolve to remain authentic in the face tribulations makes me fall in love with her.

[Ravin Maurice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this look into the life of Dunya Khair and what happened to her after she published a controversal article about religion. I never imagined the changes that would occur not only in her life but in the lives her family and friends. Her resolve and courage was inspiring as she survived the backlash, imprisonment and psychological breakdowns. Nejoud Al-Yagout is a talented author with incredible skill who draws the reader in from the first page. After reading this incredible story I will recommend it to friends and read the author's other work.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book appealed to me because I've read several non-fiction works by journalists who have found themselves in difficult political situations or memoirs of citizens held prisoner. Although this is fictional, it still sparked my interest as it featured strong characters and a storyline that is both politically and culturally exciting. The protagonist is a unique character and as a woman myself, I enjoyed that it was a story told from a female perspective, especially because in so many parts of the world, women are so marginalized and held back. Overall it was an entertaining, intense, yet inspiring read with a fresh concept and a fascinating plot.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Journalist Dunya Khair comes under fire after she dares to write an article protesting the patriarchy of her unnamed home country. Though it starts off on a weak, unspecific note, Nejoud Al-Yagout's novel ramps up in intensity once the wheels of its plot start turning. This book doesn't pull punches dwelling on its protagonist's physical and, even more so, psychological anguish. Khair's persistence and common sense bring to mind great protest art like that of Iranian director Jafar Panahi.

[Archie · Rating 4 out of 5]

How far are you ready to go to prove your point?
How far are you ready to go to prove your point? Is the basis of the story wherein a journalist puts everything she has at stake to prove what she believes in. The story is very close to reality and resonates well. This is the story of a courageous journalist Dunya Khair who, when writes a controversial article in the newspaper invites trouble and challenges that changes her life. The strength of a woman who is determined to fight till the end, regardless of little support and politics. Good Read!

[Jose Popoff]

Two words that came to mind as I was going over this book were "powerful" and "gentle". The main character definitively has this poignant stand and powerful voice but it still feels like sweet. I do not picture Dunya Khair as an anarchist but as a strong and powerful woman who knows how to effectively use her voice to trigger change.

I also love her vulnerability as she is facing consequences that she was not expecting. It cost her marriage, her family, her sanity, and it is about to cost her life.

When the Haboob sings is a book that boldly taps into the controversy that facing the status quo can bring. It delivers good sensations through a seamless and well-told narrative.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel gives an insightful view of the complexities of culture, society and humanity itself. It is a quick read but the issues tackled– press freedom, religion, mental health, feminism – were heavy but very true to our time. I particularly value the lead character’s fervor in fighting for her truth, knowing that the price she has to pay is immense. The glimpses into her mental state within the pages of the book are what kept me reading until the very end. It is a compelling and thought-provoking novel, a relevant and essential piece that can continue the conversation beyond the confines of a work of fiction.

[Nikki wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the haboob sings is a fictional story that totally blew my mind. My interest was piqued right from the title. A very unique well written and structured book. The book is filled with culture, suspense, drama, politics, action and so on. I never imagined that journalism in the Muslim world can be so exhilarating. The book covers freedom of speech and the part religion plays in exercising that freedom.
The author knocked this out if the park, an amazing job.

[Rachel Kester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Nejoud Al-Yagout tells the story of Dunya Khair. This young woman writes a very controversial article for the local newspaper which challenges the norms in her country. However, Khair soon finds that not many people agreed with her article and discovers her life is in danger due to the ideas she presented. Besides threats from strangers, she also finds her family becoming slightly hostile toward her. Khair must work to help combat these threats and live boldly with her opinions and thoughts.

At 207 pages, it might be a little bit of a long read for some. However, Al-Yagout writes with an incredible and captivating style that will make it hard to put the book down. It’s also filled with well-developed characters and a descriptive setting which will instantly transport you into the story. If you’re on the search for a unique and well-written novel, definitely consider this one.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was asked to review this by Lovereading.

this is the story of a 30-year-old female journalist living under Muslim law the country is not named but this is powerful enough and this is not relevant. She publishes material around gender equality and a total desertion of or departure from one's religion, principles, party, cause. this follows the injustices and effects of doing despite in some countries being allowed free speech.

it is unjust and unfair and following the story of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe bring this even more to life – Nazanin had not done anything wrong it was the unjustness and it still is.

this is a poignant read.

[Dhwani · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover of the book is attractive and the fonts used are catchy. The title is a metaphor to the plot is the story which a reader would understand once two third of the book has been read. The plot of book explores the story of Dunya, a writer who writes an article which becomes extremely controversial and end up offending a lot of people. She receives death threats and is imprisoned. What follows her imprisonment and release is a dark and horrifying story. This is her story through deaths, death threats, an arranged marriage, PTSD and strained relationships. The book is written in a way that I couldn't leave the story midway. It grips you entirely. The theme that has been explored leaves a message of empowering oneself and to keep going even through the tough times. The book also encourages taking care of ones mental health and therapy. I felt a touch of Khaled Hosseini in the writing of this book. The initial portion of the book is very dark and heavy which disinterested me but then it gets interesting and a little brighter. The language used is simple and the book moves through a moderate pace initially and and then it hastens. The ending was something I never expected. I would definitely recommend this book.

[Amy Koller · Rating 5 out of 5]

“When the Haboob Sings” is a brilliant, roller coaster ride of a novel that is sure to captivate your emotions and your mind. This cultural book is one that will most certainly stick with you long after you have read it and it really pulls at your heartstrings in a wide variety of ways. “When the Haboob Sings” will pull you in from the very first page. The character development is absolutely astounding and the plotline in and of itself is absolutely mind-bending, you will not want to put this one down. Al-Yagout’s style of writing is undoubtedly a cut above the rest and this one is a novel that you will certainly be glad you picked up.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout tells the story of Dunya, a woman journalist who usually sticks to safe topics. But after being continually treated as a second-class, less intelligent citizen as a woman, Dunya rebels and decides to write an article that tells the truth about her Muslim society, and the way women are treated.
This article draws her a range of reactions running from praise to death threats. Along with those reactions from readers, Dunya finds that her whole life is being turned upside down. Will she lose her family, her husband...her life? Was it worth standing up for what she believes in?
Find out by reading this fascinating book.

[Marisa Manuel · Rating 3 out of 5]

When the Haboob Sings is relevant and informative, and it offers a unique perspective on faith and remorse. However, the first fourth of the book felt repetitive, and while the book is a quick, short read, it could have been even more condensed to allow for greater intensity. I also questioned some of the pacing and character reactions—in many sections, the use of language is commendable, but the dialogue and interiority were sometimes abrupt and drew attention from the surrounding drama, rendering the scenes less effective. The latter half’s focus on blame and guilt is especially compelling, though the narrator can be hypocritical at times, and her hypocrisy isn't addressed. Still, I think the message of the book is worth a read, especially for those interested in culture and religion.

[Mercedes Diaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Al-Yagout is unafraid of broaching difficult to handle subjects that are both relevant and taboo. Not only does she take on the issues at hand, but she often delivers them from the preferred but often unseen perspective. So in Haboob, we see a woman who is strong but not externally empowered. She has little support around her and is laying it all on the line to get her point across. It’s taking the traditional heroine and stripping away that things that make being a hero such a safe choice such as friends, family, or the support of an uprising.

The book was thoughtful, but there were some parts where it seemed to walk the line between second and third person. I enjoy a good second person perspective book, but the opening passage here was a little lackluster until we went full first person and I could settle in. So don’t let the first page or so deter you!

There are haunting phrases that will follow you long after you close this book. I enjoyed that it allowed me a fair amount of time to reflect as it had very natural stopping points. I loved the clear humanization of Dunya too, not only that she had something to say and felt compelled to get it out there, but that she faced genuine problems in her marriage, with her family, and internally with depression.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout was an interesting historical and cultural fiction book. I do not typically read these types of books, but I was somewhat intrigued when I heard about it. I was pleasantly surprised with the read, and my focus was held through most of the book. I was very curious about a lot of what this story was filled with, but I also was not entirely sure how I felt about it all. There were times when the story felt like the pieces were not quite fitting together or like there was too much going on all at once for me to follow or understand. This book is filled with a lot of cultural things as well as religious aspects and topics, so if these things make you uncomfortable, then this may not be the best read for you. Overall, I would recommend this book to any person interested in culture and religion.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Nejoud's first book "Motorbikes and Camels" and was excited to pick up "When the Haboob Sings". The title alone was compelling, but the story was even more fascinating. A lot of it revolves around apostasy, which I have been through (from Christianity to Atheism) and was able to draw many parallels between the many different cultures of religion. I loved the nanny analogy. I thought that this was a great tale for anyone who has been persecuted, whether by their family, society, laws, religions, politics, or themselves. The main character, Dunya, suffers for her unpopular opinions, but refuses to renounce them and is persecuted as a result. The parallels between thoughts and actions which are praised or persecuted based on the ideology of the masses was intricately woven into the story and gave unexpected emphasis to the phrase "blind faith". The story flowed naturally and never felt moralizing to me, which is often hard to find in books centering on religious issues or faith. In the story Dunya becomes a central figure, much loved and much hated, who struggles to cope with the aftermath of "coming out" as an apostate as she deals with her altered relationships with her family and the world.

[Courtney Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Haboob Sings is one of those books that when you're reading it, it feels real and it will hit you in the feels as well. I have to admit that I know little of the Islam culture, but this book was shocking, to say the least. I could not believe the struggles she was facing from just voicing her personal opinions. You would think the fallout from the public would be enough punishment, as some of the 'fan mail' was terrible, and I'm sure many shared the opinions of Mr. X. Her persecution felt so unjust and as she struggled with being trapped in a cell, I struggled internally with her. As her life is sent through a very tumultuous journey of what started as a brave woman sharing her views of the world went through a struggle that we all know too well as life and loss. I will continue to recommend this book who love empowering stories of women.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dunya Khair is a 30-something journalist living under Muslim law. When she publishes a series of honest articles expressing critiques of current patriarchal systems and discussing controversial topics (primarily centered around gender equality and apostasy), she experiences more than the anticipated mixture of backlash and acclaim. Set in an unspecified Arabian country, When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout follows the tribulations of a young woman caught up in the injustices of her society through a cause-and-effect plotline, providing an enlightening, vivid, and deeply poignant novel of self-integrity and authenticity.


Opinion:
This story is immediately engrossing. The straightforward, almost abrupt narration allows for a quick-paced and intriguing read, leaving little room for lulls or unnecessary chatter between characters or from the narrator. The topics discussed quickly become heavy, however, as Dunya experiences mental stress, trauma, and several breakdowns throughout. This doesn’t make the read unenjoyable, but it shouldn’t be expected to be a light pool-side book either. It’s closer to Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar than Ann Brashares’ Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.

The writing style feels somewhat reminiscent of a Margaret Atwood novel in terms of voice. The poetic, visually-centric and more figurative than literal narrative descriptions and comments evoke vivid mental images clearly and succinctly. It’s unique, potent, and rich in both phrasing and tone, without feeling long-winded, sticky, or verbose. This concise yet expressive method is difficult to fully render as readers can sometimes become lost if the author leans too heavily on one side. Al-Yagout manages to walk this fine line gracefully, creating a colorfully-written novel that remains interesting from start to finish.

Told in first person and seemingly directed to the reader, When the Haboob Sings allows for deeper character-reader connection and understanding within the plot. The gritty, witty, and unabashedly honest prose is another reason why similarities between both Atwood’s writing and perhaps even some of Gillian Flynn’s books may be felt. Those who enjoy either of these authors may find Al-Yagout’s work equally as enjoyable. In several instances, the main character (and narrator) of this novel has a way of admitting or realizing frank, often ugly or at least unattractive and earnestly intimate confessions of self to the reader that can make one stop reading for a second and marvel at the perhaps undesirable yet honestly candid truths of humanity, while guiltilly relating to such confessions with ardent enjoyment.

When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout covers politics and the freedom of speech while discussing family and marital relationships during trying times, inner strife with religious faith, and the psychological impact of publicly challenging Muslim government and law in a restrictive culture through the perspective of a somewhat self-obsessed, anxiously troubled woman. Khair’s story is thought-provoking, honest, and strongly based within real society, despite being a work of fiction. The drama of the initial plotline draws one in, while the raw, realistic, and undoubtedly honest relationships and interactions between characters (and the narrator’s relationship with herself) makes one stay until the end and ultimately make it an all around worthwhile and moving piece of fiction in several notable ways.

[Ariel G · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of resistance and resilience against the oppressive standards of religious authority, WHEN THE HABOOB SINGS takes no prisoners, even as its protagonist Dunya Khair is imprisoned for exercising free speech. Despite Dunya's strongly held beliefs, her tale never becomes a tract. Instead the book focuses on her intense personal struggles, from her first steps into apostasy to the cascade of consequences that follow.

Dunya's first-person point of view keeps the reader spellbound from page one, picking up in medias res as she is jailed for writing an article about her religious beliefs - which the authorities construe as criticism of Islam. Though Dunya makes it clear that she neither hates Islam nor wants to denounce it, her actions lead to censure in the strict society of her home country, which the reader learns is Kuwait. Dunya walks a fine balance between rebellion and the wish to express herself without reproach; despite her intentions, though, the reaction to her article leads to a spiral of condemnation that she never asked for.

From jail to her eventual release, Dunya's struggle becomes more compelling as she has to respond to both the attacks on her writing and her growing depression and anxiety. Facing internal and external animosity puts such pressure on her mental state that she must either recant her beliefs, or stand behind them no matter the cost. This story is a fantastic portrait of the personal price one must pay for dissent. Detail about daily life in Kuwait is interwoven with Dunya's anguish, uncertainty, and eventual resolve. The result is a fully realized narrative that brings the reader into Dunya's world, while making a strong case for the right to speak freely and defend your beliefs. I was captivated from beginning to end, and would recommend this to anyone interested in what it takes for one person to stand up against political and religious conformity.

[Tynea Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dunya Khair, a published writer in an unnamed Muslim country, is wasting away in prison. In her cell with only a mouse and insects for company, Dunya reflects on the events of her life that led to her imprisonment: her outspokenness, her calling to write the truth, and her declaration of apostasy. In her country, not being Muslim is a heinous crime; the only thing worse is writing about not being Muslim. But prison is only the beginning of Dunya’s journey. Upon her release, she’s inundated with emails, some supporting her, others threatening to kill and send her straight to hell. Dunya can deal with empty threats, but what she can’t handle is the way her family is splintering around her; it’s only a matter of time before she cracks under the pressure. Hers is a story of mental illness, the steps to recovery, and love.

This book was a ride, but I enjoyed it because it was an honest one. The story was a little scattered and made confusing leaps at times, but it made me feel like I was truly inside Dunya’s mind, going on this journey with her. While many parts of Dunya’s story (her time in prison, her writing ability) aren’t as relatable, the underlying themes of stress, mental illness, fear of asking for help, and coming to terms with yourself are things many of us have experienced at different points in our lives. Dunya’s story is unique because it isn’t a feel-good story that pats you on the head and assures you everything will be okay. It is frighteningly honest and addresses the fact that real life isn’t easy. Battling mental illness is HARD; you don’t always have the support you need, and even the littlest things can set you back. But her story also reiterates that it IS possible. Her daily choice to prioritize her mental health is inspiring.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a book that will make them think and anyone who gets overwhelmed by life at times.

[Asher · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout is a literary fiction book surrounding the main female character, Dunya Khair. A 'haboob', for those who may not know, is an oppressive, violent dust storm. The beautiful double-entendre that the title delivers carries through to the novel itself, where the protagonist Dunya delivers her story in first person present tense (and some diary entries toward the end). She is a writer and an activist in a place where an oppressive storm much like the haboob swirls and destroys around her—forcing her down. Or trying to, at least. This is known of her and, to some extent, grittingly tolerated...until she pushes the boundary too far. And then, it isn't.

Nejoud Al-Yagout delivers a fantastic piece of modern Fem Lit with When the Haboob Sings, bringing forward a worthy and believable female protagonist in Dunya Khair. Dunya is quick to pull a reader in as she paces about a prison cell, speaking in a biting, acerbic narrative that dances somewhere between a strong differentia and the frailty of an utterly mutilated psyche. She is perseverant but she is also excruciatingly vulnerable. In my eyes, this where Dunya comes to life as an authentic character. She does what she needs to because it is right, but at the same time little thought is often given and her temperament and emotion are usually driving where reason and guile would likely serve her better. This is a character-driven plot that is timely in its release, with a realistic look at what it's like to be an independent, freethinking woman amidst a haboob of objectification and misogyny. This is a story of right here, right now—wherever in the world you might be.

Review written for Readers' Favorite.

[Harshita · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚
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📚 Description:
When Dunya Khair writes a controversial article in the newspaper challenging the status quo in her country, the response--ranging from adulation to death threats--is swift.

Faced with the dissolution of familial ties and the prospective collapse of her marriage, alongside a looming nervous breakdown, Dunya's consequent actions exemplify both the strength and frailty of the human spirit.

When the Haboob Sings paints a poignant picture of a woman whose unshakeable resolve to preserve her authenticity costs her more than she ever imagined.
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📚 MY REVIEW:
The cover of the book is very lovely. The light colour of the cover is very simple and attractive. The title is meaningful. The title and the cover goes very well with the book. The writting style is very lucid and easily understandable. The plot is very interesting and unique. The story is adorable. Narration is catchy.
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The story revolves around the protagonist, Dunya Khair. She is a journalist. Her character is very strong and she is one of the strongest female character of the fictional world. The setting of the story is in a patriarchal society. Dunya khair write article on various topics such as gender equality, prevalence of religion etc.
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Overall, the story is very gripping and very enjoyable. It's an emotional tale. The story made me cry at some places. The setting of the story is in a patriarchal society which I loved the most. Everyone must read this book.
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📚 MY RATINGS: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠