2 out of 5 stars
Liyana’s father moves their family from America back to his home in Jerusalem. Tensions are high between the Arab and Jewish peoples, but Liyana befriends a Jewish boy. Her family don’t know how to react. They believe in peace, but can they accept someone so different from themselves after all the years of hatred that surround them?
I really loved the messages of acceptance and peace in this book. The story does not shy away from the tragic history of Jerusalem, but there is always hope for a new peaceful future. Some of the characters are harassed, called names, and even attacked by racist soldiers or police. But still they continue to hope for peace and they respond with non-violence.
In the middle of all the tension in Jerusalem, Liyana is trying to adjust to a new country and several new languages. She has grown up as an American, and she wants to connect more with her Arab heritage. She explores themes of religion, loyalty, cultural rules, and the meaning of death and life. Most of her conclusions are pathetically ignorant and naive, but at least she is asking questions.
Personally, I found this book upsetting. I didn’t really enjoy it. I liked the introspective writing style, but I did not actually like Liyana’s character. I thought some of the philosophies that are presented through the story were really good, but some of the values and religious beliefs that are included were foolish and even dangerous.
However, I did like the representation for third-culture kids, since I am one myself. Liyana’s experiences of culture-shock and homesickness were very compelling and true to life. I liked the scenes when Liyana is trying to learn Arabic and she makes mistakes and says the wrong thing. No matter what new culture you are adjusting to, some things are universal.
To see each instance of violence and racism in this book, you can check it out on the Screen It First website! https://screenitfirst.com/book/habibi-2392482
Luminous Libro 