THE MAP OF SALT AND STARS

Description

The Map of Salt and Stars is a powerful and lyrical debut novel by Syrian-American author Zeyn Joukhadar. This compelling narrative intertwines the stories of two girls living eight hundred years apart, highlighting the enduring themes of family, identity, and the search for home.

Plot Overview:

In the summer of 2011, Nour, a twelve-year-old Syrian-American girl, relocates with her mother and two sisters from New York City back to Syria after the death of her father. To keep his memory alive, Nour recounts their favorite story—the tale of Rawiya, a twelfth-century girl who disguised herself as a boy to apprentice with a renowned mapmaker. However, their return to Syria coincides with the outbreak of war, and when a shell destroys their home, the family is forced to flee. Their journey mirrors Rawiya’s path, traversing seven countries in search of safety, as they navigate the challenges of displacement and the quest for belonging.

Themes:

• Grief and Resilience: The novel explores the emotional journey of loss and the strength required to rebuild one’s life amidst turmoil.

• Cultural Identity: Through Nour’s and Rawiya’s stories, the narrative delves into the complexities of cultural heritage and the preservation of identity in the face of adversity

• Migration and Displacement: The parallel journeys highlight the universal experience of migration, emphasizing the shared human desire for safety and home.