Here’s a new book review of my novel “A Girl’s Paradise Lost”, thank you Zero:
“I have just finished reading this book, A Girl's Paradise Lost, for the second time. Reading it for the second time was just as impactful as the first time. I found myself crying many times throughout your book. The way you describe Jaffa in your book makes me feel like I am there smelling the oranges and listening to the ocean with you. Jaffa sounds like a very beautiful place, like it is the place where Heaven and Earth meet. I feel very honoured to be able to read your story and learn so deeply about Jaffa, the land and your people. I know that Jaffa will always belong to its people and its people will always belong to Jaffa. I know that one day, the people of Jaffa will return and Jaffa will welcome them with a beautiful breeze and calm waters. No matter what, Jaffa will live forever.
I also feel honoured to read about your own personal story and the story of your family. I can picture you and other children of Jaffa playing with each other, having big family gatherings and helping each other cook and prepare for a feast. I am happy to know that you spent many good days with your family. Reading your stories has taught me so many different things, and I will carry them with me forever.
Reading about Sitt Zubaida's life, I had found pieces of myself and my own family in these stories. I am sad to read about all of the loss you have experienced I can't imagine this level of heartbreak and loss. Yet, you still stand strong and carry with you a piece of everyone and everything you have lost. You still share your stories with such beauty and resilience, and you keep your faith. Thank you for sharing your stories with everyone who reads your book. I truly have never read a book that is as beautiful and heartbreaking as this one. Your stories will always stay with me.
I hope to see you again soon. In the meantime, please take care. I am sending you a big hug!”