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The Story of Zahra

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986

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Book Brief

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Hanan al-Shaykh

The Story of Zahra

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

215

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Beirut, Lebanon • 1970s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Story of Zahra by Hanan al-Shaykh is set in Beirut during the onset of the Lebanese Civil War and follows Zahra as she grapples with family pressures, societal expectations, and the chaos of conflict. The novel is narrated mostly in the first person by Zahra, with some chapters by her uncle and husband, and explores themes of sexual repression, abandonment, displacement, and patriarchal violence. It includes instances of rape, abortion, civil war, self-harm, drug use, thoughts of suicide, medical abuse, and murder.

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

3.7

1,277 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Hanan al-Shaykh's The Story of Zahra presents a powerful narrative set against the Lebanese Civil War, exploring themes of trauma, identity, and resilience. Reviewers praise its vivid prose and complex character development, though some find its pacing uneven. The novel's raw depiction of war's impact on personal lives is both unsettling and compelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Story of Zahra?

Readers who appreciate intense, emotionally rich narratives and are interested in exploring themes of war, identity, and gender will enjoy The Story of Zahra by Hanan al-Shaykh. Comparable to The Kite Runner for its cultural depth and A Thousand Splendid Suns for its focus on women's experiences, this novel will resonate deeply.

3.7

1,277 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Character List

Zahra

A young Lebanese woman who struggles with societal expectations and personal trauma, often feeling isolated from those around her. She is the central character dealing with internal and external conflicts throughout the narrative.

Zahra's mother, who embodies the contradictions of societal norms and personal desires. She is critical yet protective of Zahra, influenced by her own experiences and societal pressures.

Zahra's uncle who lives in Africa after fleeing Lebanon due to political conflicts. His modern views contrast with his actions, creating a complex relationship with Zahra.

A friend of Hashem and Zahra's husband, who is driven by the desire for financial stability and status. He grapples with class issues and traditional beliefs about marriage.

Zahra's brother, who transitions from an adored child to a soldier involved in Lebanon's conflict. His journey reflects the impact of war on individuals' morality and behavior.

A family friend who abuses his power to exploit Zahra, representing broader themes of misogyny and power dynamics. His role highlights the vulnerabilities faced by women.

A sniper with whom Zahra has an affair, characterized by his mysterious and reserved nature. His relationship with Zahra is marked by secrecy and complexity.

Zahra's controlling and violent father, who works for the tramway in Beirut. His changing demeanor reflects the upheavals brought by the war.

Book Details
Pages

215

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Beirut, Lebanon • 1970s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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