I find it troubling to admit that I enjoyed reading a book that was as disturbing as "Towelhead".
Jasira leaves her mother at 13 years old, but not by her own choosing. She travels from New York to Houston to live with her father, who is from Lebanon. This novel takes place during the Gulf War, which is an interesting setting for the racial tensions that abound.
Alicia Erian has a way with writing; She is able to make characters that have some very serious flaws appear very human and often comic. I did not come away hating these characters, and I almost feel guilty.
To visit Jasira's world is almost like stepping into a parallel universe where the rules and morals are different than our own. If I had been reading about an adult instead of a 13 year old girl, this book would have been easier to digest, but certainly would not have had the same impact.
This is a very, very good book. I devoured it. But I almost feel like I have devoured a whole box of chocolates--slightly queasy and remorseful.
Jasira leaves her mother at 13 years old, but not by her own choosing. She travels from New York to Houston to live with her father, who is from Lebanon. This novel takes place during the Gulf War, which is an interesting setting for the racial tensions that abound.
Alicia Erian has a way with writing; She is able to make characters that have some very serious flaws appear very human and often comic. I did not come away hating these characters, and I almost feel guilty.
To visit Jasira's world is almost like stepping into a parallel universe where the rules and morals are different than our own. If I had been reading about an adult instead of a 13 year old girl, this book would have been easier to digest, but certainly would not have had the same impact.
This is a very, very good book. I devoured it. But I almost feel like I have devoured a whole box of chocolates--slightly queasy and remorseful.
Helpful Score: 4
Really a good book, but very very heavy. Beware.
Helpful Score: 2
This book was a pretty quick read, and I was extremely glad when I was finished! Although I am not one to shy away from shocking or "sexually charged" texts, this book was difficult to stomach, and is in no way one that could be enjoyed. The 13 year old main character comes off as much younger than 13, which in a way makes the story even more disturbing. The entire book was filled with extremely graphic sexual narrative. I might be missing something, but I can't understand at all the positive reviews this book has received.
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't know what to expect with this book, with what the back says, I was thinking it would be more about culture or religion. It wasn't. It's sexy in an underage way, a bit vulgar and shocking, but it's simple and childlike. Very well written and you really get to know the characters as they evolve. It may be weird to say, but I really enjoyed this book.
