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A review by rmaff
A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum
challenging
informative
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
5.0
I haven't been inclined to read literary fiction for the past few years but with current events in Palestine, I felt compelled to read this book. It's also worth noting that I live in the neighborhood in which this book takes place.
All that being said, this is the best, most moving and gripping book I've read in years. Although the story was mercilessly dark and hard to read at times, I could not put it down. I feel a new sense of appreciation for my own culture where I am a woman who's free to make my own choices; and I feel enlightened to how women in other cultures are treated and seen (or not).
After the big reveal around the 2/3 mark I wasn't sure how the rest of the story would play out but that final chapter was heart-wrenching.
Every woman should read this book regardless of their race, cultural background or home.
All that being said, this is the best, most moving and gripping book I've read in years. Although the story was mercilessly dark and hard to read at times, I could not put it down. I feel a new sense of appreciation for my own culture where I am a woman who's free to make my own choices; and I feel enlightened to how women in other cultures are treated and seen (or not).
After the big reveal around the 2/3 mark I wasn't sure how the rest of the story would play out but that final chapter was heart-wrenching.
Every woman should read this book regardless of their race, cultural background or home.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Rape, Sexism, Suicide, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Alcoholism, Xenophobia, and Alcohol