Once in a Promised Land
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A BookSense Notable Title for February 2007 Once in a Promised Land is the story of a couple, Jassim and Salwa, who left the deserts of their native Jordan for those of Arizona, each chasing their own dreams of opportunity and freedom. Although the two live far from Ground Zero, they cannot escape the nationwide fallout from 9/11. Jassim, a hydrologist, believes passionately in his mission to keep the water tables from dropping and make water accessible to all people, but his work is threatened by an FBI witch hunt for domestic terrorists. Salwa, a Palestinian now twice displaced, grappling to put down roots in an inhospitable climate, becomes pregnant against her husband's wishes and then loses the baby. When Jassim kills a teenage boy in a terrible accident and Salwa becomes hopelessly entangled with a shady young American, their tenuous lives in exile and their fragile marriage begin to unravel . This intimate account of two parallel lives is an achingly honest look at what it means to straddle cultures, to be viewed with suspicion, and to struggle to find save haven.
Listed under English & College Success · English · Literature · Fiction
About Once in a Promised Land
What is Once in a Promised Land about?
A BookSense Notable Title for February 2007 Once in a Promised Land is the story of a couple, Jassim and Salwa, who left the deserts of their native Jordan for those of Arizona, each chasing their own dreams of opportunity and freedom. Although the two live far from Ground Zero, they cannot escape the nationwide fallout from 9/11.
Who wrote Once in a Promised Land?
Once in a Promised Land was written by Laila Halaby.
What books are similar to Once in a Promised Land?
Explore our curated recommendations for books like Once in a Promised Land by Laila Halaby, matched by theme, writing style, and atmosphere to help you find your next read.
Where can I buy Once in a Promised Land?
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