SANTA CLAUS IN BAGHDAD

Marston’s timely and engaging collection of eight short stories offers provocative snapshots of Arab teenagers growing up in environments riddled with religious, historical and cultural dilemmas. These teens confront common coming-of-age issues as well as their unique indigenous challenges. In war-weary Baghdad, Amal discovers that a gift for her teacher comes at a high price. In ancient Damascus, Suhayl copes with his parents’ divorce by making a special meal for the mother he must leave. In Lebanon, Aneesi chooses between an arranged marriage and her own dreams. In occupied Palestine, Mujahhid wages his own jihad against Israeli soldiers. Uprooted from modern Cairo, Rania defies her urbane mother by consorting with a village girl. In historic Tunisia, Hedi discovers he may have a future beyond selling hats to tourists. In Jordan, Yasmine wonders what is honorable about a family who would murder a daughter to save face. In a bleak Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon, Rami finds the perfect wife for his brother. Amid unrest, resilient Arab teens find courage and hope and offer inspiration. (notes) (Fiction. 10-15)