Synopsis
This delightful collection of short stories offers insight into the lives of Syrian women, both the married and the brides-to-be. It reveals the warmth and humor as well as the oppression in the Syrian society. The stories make the reader laugh while addressing serious issues such as domestic violence.
Um Hussam can’t find a suitable bride for her son, testing each candidate’s sight, hearing and reading skills, occasionally cobbing a feel. Jamila’s husband Hassan can’t forget his deceased wife until she makes sure he never mentions her again. Rami can’t help but wonder whether his new bride is a natural beauty or a talented surgeon’s masterpiece. Khadija’s maid stabs her in the back while Rana’s husband Muafak can’t find the right excuse to avoid a fight.
Review
This is an interesting collection of short stories. While the stories are set in Syria, the issues they deal with span the globe and aren’t limited to just their country. Some of the stories made me chuckle and some were a little heartbreaking especially when it came to domestic abuse. The women in Syria have just as many issues with their men as I see in the US. Men that abuse their spouse, those that are shallow, infidelity, and so much more. But the women don’t let that stop them! Some are very clever and devious, and some are just trying to survive.
Each story had a moral to it but not all stories ended where I felt that it was wrapped up and concluded. I wanted to know what happened next in a few cases. I liked one story where a woman wanted a divorce and the “judge” said for her to bring him a cake but she had to ask for all of the ingredients from her neighbors. On this journey, the woman realizes that maybe her life isn’t as bad as she thinks. Sometimes I think that needs to happen in my country!
Overall I enjoyed reading these stories and give it 4 paws up.
About the Author
Anna Halabi was born and raised in Aleppo, Syria. She emigrated to Europe in 1999 for her university studies. She currently lives with her family in Germany.Syrian Brides is her debut as an author. The stories and characters in this collection were inspired by her personal experiences as well as her relatives, friends and TV shows.
Inspiration for writing the stories:
I tried to illustrate the tragedy of the Syrian women‘s oppression in a light-hearted way and to celebrate their empowerment and wits. It is probably one of the only funny books about Syria. I wanted to portray a different image of the Syrian people who are now seen as refugees and war victims. I wanted to show what life was like before the revolution ruined our country. Back when everything was still “normal”.
