By Omar El Akkad
I just finished listening to the audiobook that is narrated by the author. I would recommend listening to the book as you can hear exactly how the author felt as he was writing the book and listen to his emotions come through.
This was a difficult read in terms of subject matter. I felt devastated by his descriptions of the violence and death experienced by the Palestinians that he saw in the war. He talks about how he wishes he could un-see these tragedies and I felt the same after hearing about them. He also criticizes the western world for supporting the Israelis and turning a blind eye to the atrocities.
I also think this book does a great job of criticizing the western world for its hypocrisy in that it says all are entitled to freedom and justice, but it really only means a privileged few. In fact, the book argues that the western world is by design meant to leave out many groups of people in its ideals.
Alongside describing the reporting he did as a journalist, he also includes his own personal experience with moving the Canada and living through the inequality and racism. This is probably a relatable and similar experience that many Arab immigrants faced, especially after 9/11. It makes me ashamed that immigrants experience such hardship.
I would recommend reading this book. It’s very thought provoking and eye-opening, and deeply unsettling.
by Pretty-Resolve-8331