From Booklist
Sallis' second and third novels, previously published in Australia, breathe vibrant life into the immigrant experience, and the powerful yet invisible ties of family. The City of Sea Lions traces the journey of Lian, daughter of a Vietnamese mother and Australian father, to Yemen, where she goes both to study Arabic and to escape her mother. There Lian sees herself as "the demo Australian. Quaint. . . . Opinionated," while at the same time immersing herself in Yemeni culture. In vivid and kaleidoscopic prose, Sallis adroitly weaves Lian's dreams, memories, and the local fables she hears with the exotic present of her new life. Mahjar, which refers collectively to all lands of Arab migration, is a novel-in--stories of a group of Lebanese refugees in Australia (where Sallis lives with her Lebanese husband.) The 15 connected stories overflow with the rich details of the culture shock felt by the first generation and their constant conflict with their children, who are adapting all too quickly to Australia's lifestyle, abandoning the traditions their parents hold sacred. Together these two novels introduce a refreshing and innovative author, already acclaimed in Australia, to American readers. Deborah Donovan
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Review
"Amazing explorations of the immigrant experience filled with rich characterization and evocative language." -- PAGES
"Fifteen elegant tales about the Arab émigré experience." -- Kirkus Reviews
"Fifteen elegant tales about the Arab émigré experience." -- Kirkus Reviews
Book Description
Interspersed with evocative Arab fables, these vibrant stories explore the differences between Middle Eastern and Western culture, between immigrant parents and their native-born children, and between new lives and old memories. Through interwoven narrative and allegories, a timely picture of Middle Eastern immigrants and refugees emerges. Poignant vignettes about those still living in war-torn Palestine and Iraq create a contrasting perspective. In a time of suspicion and fear, this exquisite volume paints a humanizing picture of Arabic culture and a sympathetic portrait of Middle Easterners struggling to find their place.
About the Author
Eva Sallis is a professor at the University of Adelaide. She is the author of The City of Sealions, Hiam, The Metamorphosis of 1001 Nights, and Sheherazade Through the Looking Glass.
