Salt Houses, written by Hala Alyan, is a beautifully written and captivating novel that explores the lives of a Palestinian family over several generations. The story begins in 1963 with the Yacoub family being forced to flee their home in Jaffa, Palestine due to the Arab-Israeli conflict. The family is scattered across the Middle East, with some members settling in Kuwait, Beirut, Paris, and Boston.
The novel follows the lives of the family members as they navigate the complexities of identity, displacement, and loss. Each chapter is told from the perspective of a different family member, offering a unique and intimate glimpse into their inner thoughts and struggles. The characters are richly developed and each one has their own unique voice and perspective, making them feel incredibly real and relatable.
Alyan's writing is lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty and pain of the characters' experiences with stunning clarity. The novel is a powerful exploration of the impact of displacement and conflict on individuals and families, as well as the ways in which people seek to create a sense of home and belonging in a world that is constantly changing.
Overall, Salt Houses is a moving and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh and unique perspective on the Palestinian experience. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring themes of identity, family, and belonging in the context of conflict and displacement.