The Sweetness of Tears
By Nafisa Haji
Fiction [FIC Haji] (as of posting, this book is still on the New Shelf)
Reviewed by: Angy
A patron came into the library last week and wanted to know where I found this book – she said it was a wonderful book, encompassing themes of war and peace, and Christianity and Islam. After her high praise of this book, I decided I needed to find the time to read it myself.
The narrative is told through the perspective of a handful of people in different times and places all connected to the book’s protagonist, Jo March, named after the main character of Alcott’s Little Women. Jo has grown up in a family with a rich heritage in nondenominational, evangelical Christianity, but learns that her ties to Islam are closer than anyone could expect. As she tries to understand who she is, she must also deal with her brother’s and her own actions in the Middle East during the aftermath of 9/11.
I enjoyed this book very much, but I want to be clear: this book, while dealing with Christianity and religion, is not inspirational Christian fiction. I recommend it to those who are interested in the interplay between Christianity and Islam, and those who enjoy books that cover multiple generations. This book does become political at times, and will probably not be well-received by staunch conservatives.
Note: Have you read a good book recently? Talk to Angy or email her at bpl@bernepl.lib.in.us about getting your review on the library’s blog!
