A review by jasmind496
As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

"We held our heads high and planted lemon trees in acts of defiance [...]" (p.86)

I had very high hopes in this book and it delivered!😁
This book is about Salama, a girl living in Syria during the revolution, who is forced to decide if she will stay and work as a nurse, or flee with her best friend.

This book made me laugh, cry, hope, love ... and these characters grew so close to my heart!
It was so interesting to learn about Syria's background and what happens there. Because - as the book correctly states - everyone is knowing, there is a war, but not many quite know why.
It also describes one of many possible ways, how the refugees made their way to Europe and the dangers that go with them.

I also loved the metaphor of the lemon trees! Now, everytime I see or smell lemons, I will think of Syria and the on-going revolution.🍋

But honestly, Khawf and Layla ... I think they stand for her PTSD but honestly, when they revealed that LAYLA was a Vision, I cried. I cried hard. 
I am so glad, Salama and Kenan got their "happy ending" in the end!


Overall one of my rare 5 ⭐️ reads!