As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow

This story allowed me to understand hardships I have been fortunate enough to not have experienced. I feel in love with every character and will be adding this to my personal collection.

“Every lemon will bring forth a child, and the lemons will never die out” “As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow” is an exquisitely crafted, profoundly moving story that captures Salama's journey of love, faith, and survival amid war-torn Syria. From the very first page, it reaches out and touches the reader's heart, resonating powerfully with the struggles we face in today’s world. The emotional richness of this narrative is incredible, bringing forth both tears and glimmers of hope, and it stays with the reader long after the final words are read. The story is raw and heavy, prompting moments of reflection born not from a lack of quality but from the profound intensity of Salama's experiences with trauma, loss, and the lasting impact of war. This emotional resonance is magnified by the contemporary backdrop of conflict in places like Palestine, making the narrative even more significant and urgent. In the midst of this chaos, the relationship between Salama and Kenan emerges as a powerful testament to love and faith. Kenan’s unwavering support allows Salama to face harsh realities, revealing a tender, heartbreaking dynamic that inspires resilience and courage. While the book prepares readers for sorrow, it ultimately imparts a message of beauty, strength, and hope. It invites readers to fully immerse themselves in Salama’s world, ensuring they feel every emotion she navigates. This book is truly a heartfelt experience that deserves to be embraced by all.

Oof. This author grabbed my heart, then she ripped it out, sqaushed it, tossed it then said “oh let’s put it back to see if it still works.” And does it? No. It does not. This book was so beautiful and amazing and it climbed the ladder to my top list of all time fav books.

I felt so connected to Salama and Layla and rooted the entire book for them to make it away from syria and its horror.

***SPOILER***


I sobbed when we realized that layla had died and our girl salama hadnt accepted her death. Their interactions were all in her head.

Becoming a refugee is an agonizing choice and this book describes that agony well. A beautiful story.

This book gave me an awareness of the issues in Syria. It’s quite different from only watching the news media. Well written and thought provoking.