104 pages 3 hours read

Ibtisam Barakat

Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In her memoir, Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood (2007), Ibtisam Barakat recounts her early years in Palestine during the Six-Day War of 1967, detailing its lasting impact on her life. She shares her experiences of displacement, family hardship, and the struggle for normalcy amidst conflict, ultimately finding solace and healing through education and writing. The memoir highlights the human cost of war while emphasizing the transformative power of resilience and self-expression. The book contains instances of sexual assault, violence, and animal slaughter.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Ibtisam Barakat's Tasting the Sky is lauded for its poignant, powerful narrative and evocative storytelling, drawing readers into her childhood in war-torn Palestine. Critics praise its poetic language and ability to convey deep emotions. Some note that the non-linear structure can be challenging. Overall, it’s hailed as a moving, educational memoir that vividly captures the human spirit.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Tasting the Sky?

Readers who would enjoy Tasting the Sky by Ibtisam Barakat are often interested in memoirs, particularly those revolving around themes of childhood resilience and cultural identity. Fans of Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai will likely find this narrative compelling.

RecommendedReading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

870L

Book Details

Topics

History: Middle Eastern

Military / War

Education

Themes

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Society: War

Identity: Gender

Genre

Education

Biography