45 pages 1 hour read

Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar

The Map of Salt and Stars

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar follows two interwoven narratives: Nour, a young Syrian girl fleeing the current war, and Rawiya, a medieval mapmaker’s apprentice. Nour, who relocates from Manhattan to Homs, escapes the bombing with her family, mirroring Rawiya's adventurous journey across the Middle East centuries earlier. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, subverted gender roles, and the quest for home. The book contains depictions of war, family loss, and attempted sexual violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar intertwines a modern Syrian refugee's journey with a medieval legend, earning praise for its lyrical prose and emotional depth. Critics commend its rich storytelling and cultural depiction, though some note a slower pacing in parts. Overall, the novel is lauded for its poignant narrative and vivid imagery.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Map of Salt and Stars?

A reader who enjoys The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar is likely captivated by rich, dual narratives blending historical fiction and contemporary refugee experiences. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner or A Thousand Splendid Suns will appreciate its lyrical storytelling and deep emotional resonance.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Genre

Action / Adventure

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

American Literature

Topics

Immigration / Refugee

Gender / Feminism

Military / War

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Grief

Identity: Femininity

Life/Time: Coming of Age