The Cry of the Dove , by Fadia Faqir
I read one publication per nation received the 2026 FIFA World Mug: 48 countries = 48 books = 48 weeks. To comprehend why-when-how-etc, visit this site
In this novel, we meet Salma, a Bedouin female detained for getting pregnant beyond marriage, then banished to the UK– where she’s now free and trying to become “Sally”, a British, liberal, easygoing female who most likely doesn’t fit her whatsoever. The story shifts (regularly, swiftly, uncomfortably) in between her life in Exeter and her memories of Jordan, in between poetic and brutal tones.
Some components feel repeated or do not add much. Also, the side characters can have assisted make guide a lot more memorable. But this is a brave unique, one that sticks the lead character’s trip deep in your memory. The injury of social misplacement is something I want fiction could explore regularly, and right here it integrates with styles like honor and being a mother, all symbolized by this haunted young Sally/Salma, who you simply wish to see locate peace.
- Can this book win our 2026 WCoB?
Unlikely, but it made points for the authenticity. - My Goodreads ranking:
3 stars. - Literary matching of a nationwide team:
Algeria 2014 A figured out team that remained in the game longer than we can expect. - Read it if …
… you enjoy stories of expatriation and want a story without very easy redemption. - Prevent if …
… you need a linear storytelling to stay involved with the book.
And that’s it.
Following week: Australia.