104 pages • 3 hours read
Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood
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Book Brief
Tasting the Sky
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2007208
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
West Bank • 1960s-1970s
2007
Middle grade
12-18 years
870L
Super Short Summary
In her memoir, Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood (2007), Ibtisam Barakat recounts her early years in Palestine during the Six-Day War of 1967, detailing its lasting impact on her life. She shares her experiences of displacement, family hardship, and the struggle for normalcy amidst conflict, ultimately finding solace and healing through education and writing. The memoir highlights the human cost of war while emphasizing the transformative power of resilience and self-expression. The book contains instances of sexual assault, violence, and animal slaughter.
Emotional
Contemplative
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,926 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ibtisam Barakat's Tasting the Sky is lauded for its poignant, powerful narrative and evocative storytelling, drawing readers into her childhood in war-torn Palestine. Critics praise its poetic language and ability to convey deep emotions. Some note that the non-linear structure can be challenging. Overall, it’s hailed as a moving, educational memoir that vividly captures the human spirit.
Who Should Read Tasting the Sky?
Readers who would enjoy Tasting the Sky by Ibtisam Barakat are often interested in memoirs, particularly those revolving around themes of childhood resilience and cultural identity. Fans of Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai will likely find this narrative compelling.
1,926 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Suleiman Barakat (Father)
Suleiman Barakat (Father)
The provider and protector of the Barakat family, he is deeply affected by past wars, values education, and reveres figures like Muhammad Ali and Jamal Abdel Nasser.
Mirriam Barakat (Mother)
Mirriam Barakat (Mother)
A clever and protective figure, she feels restricted by traditional roles and the ongoing occupation, using her sewing skills to earn money and draw people together.
Muhammad and Basel
Muhammad and Basel
Ibtisam's older brothers are her close companions and protectors, sharing a strong bond with her and enduring the challenges of war together.
Hamameh
Hamameh
The wife of a water truck driver, who becomes a close friend to Ibtisam's mother during their time as refugees, offering support and companionship.
Grandma Fatima
Grandma Fatima
Ibtisam’s grandmother who embodies Palestinian customs and love for the land, living in Beit Iksa and assisting her family with traditional practices.
Lilian
Lilian
Ibtisam’s kind and supportive first-grade teacher, who plays a significant role in fostering Ibtisam's love for learning and empowering her academically.
Jamal Abdel Nasser
Jamal Abdel Nasser
The former president of Egypt and a symbol of hope for Palestinians, whose loss profoundly affects Ibtisam’s father and is tied to the family's historical context.
208
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
West Bank • 1960s-1970s
2007
Middle grade
12-18 years
870L
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