WE ARE PALESTINIAN

A Palestinian cookbook author and food writer explores her country’s rich cultural heritage.

Organizing the book into seven sections, Kassis covers geography, cultural symbols, major figures, agriculture, cuisine, performing arts, and history and religion. The author discusses major cities like Jericho (arguably the world’s oldest city as well as “the lowest city on Earth, sitting 258 meters below sea level”), Akka, and Haifa, as well as significant landmarks. She explains the importance of cultural symbols like tatreez, the art of embroidery, and how these designs often tell stories. She also describes traditional garments, such as the thobe (a long-sleeved belted dress) and the keffiya (a scarf worn by men). A chapter devoted to “creative minds” profiles poet Mahmoud Darwish; Mustafa Murrar, often called “the pillar of Palestinian children’s literature”; scholar Edward Said; charity worker Samiha Khalil; and journalist and field correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh, among others. Given the author’s culinary background, it’s no surprise that food is well covered, too, from maqlubeh (a dish typically made of layers of meat, rice, and vegetables) to knafeh (a dough-based dessert). Kassis’ details are well chosen and convey her love of her homeland; fun facts and “Did you know?” sidebars enliven the engaging text. Eilouti’s bright illustrations complement the writing, portraying important landmarks in cities, capturing the cross-stitch patterns in cushions, and bringing to life examples of native plants.

A joyful and accessible introduction.