Mahjar

by Eva Sallis

Interspersed with evocative Arab fables, these vibrant stories explore the differences between Middle Eastern and Western culture, between immigrant parents and their native-born children, and between new lives and old memories. Through interwoven narrative and allegories, a timely picture of Middle Eastern immigrants and refugees emerges. Poignant vignettes about those still living in war-torn Palestine and Iraq create a contrasting perspective. In a time of suspicion and fear, this exquisite volume paints a humanizing picture of Arabic culture and a sympathetic portrait of Middle Easterners struggling to find their place.

Genres: Short Stories

180 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2003

About the author

Also known as Eva Hornung: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Reviews

[Sharkell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mahjar by Eva Sallis is a short story collection of inter-related stories, focused on 2 Middle Eastern families living in Australia. The stories focus on trauma experienced in the Middle East, along with the difficulties living within community in a foreign country, especially as the second generation grow up in Australia. Highly recommended.

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written, moving glimpses into the lives of Lebanese living in Australia, of an Iraqi shattered by the death of his wife and child, and of Palestinian children living under occupation.

[The Contented · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars out of three
Read in a hurry

[shweta · Rating 5 out of 5]

so witty and such a touching book

[Lisa Jewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mahjar is a short work of storytelling that is complex in its narrative. Sallis has created a wonderful diverse group of characters who each are struggling to come to terms with their surroundings, their heritage and their current situations. Each character's story so well crafted, there are times when you are so drawn in that you feel the pain and anguish.
This is just a marvellous collection and the writing is masterful.

[Sue]

Mahjar by Eva Sallis (2005)