Against the Loveless World

by Susan Abulhawa
Against the Loveless World cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Literary Fiction
Technical
  • ID: 4015
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9781982137045
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2021-11-02
  • Reviews: 3

Against the Loveless World follows a young Palestinian refugee as she navigates the challenges of displacement and the search for a better life for her family across the Middle East. The novel, written by internationally bestselling author Susan Abulhawa, explores themes of resilience, family, and the complexities of radicalization. Through lyrical prose, the book delves into the emotional and political landscape of the protagonist's journey, offering a sweeping narrative that examines the human cost of conflict and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The novel is both a deeply personal story and a broader commentary on the struggles faced by refugees and marginalized communities.

Reviews
Have a Cup of Johanny · 2024-01-27
moving 4.20

The novel is poignant and deeply moving, offering a powerful exploration of resilience and the Palestinian experience.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the novel's poignant exploration of resilience and the Palestinian experience. They appreciated the author's ability to convey the emotional depth and complexity of the characters and their struggles. The story's powerful narrative and its focus on resilience make it a compelling and impactful read. They also noted that the book's emotional resonance and its exploration of important themes make it a significant contribution to the literary landscape.

Quick quotes

    a poignant novel delves into the Palestinian experience

    a powerful exploration of resilience

    a compelling and impactful read

Johannesburg Review of Books · Wamuwi Mbao · 2021-06-18
thought-provoking 4.00

The novel is taut and thought-provoking, challenging readers to reconsider the norms of violence and resistance.

Wamuwi Mbao found the novel to be tightly written and intellectually stimulating, urging readers to rethink the complexities of violence and resistance. They praised the author's ability to weave a compelling narrative that challenges conventional perspectives. The reviewer appreciated the depth of the story's exploration of these themes, making it a significant and thought-provoking read. They also noted that the book's narrative is both engaging and provocative, encouraging readers to engage with its themes on a deeper level.

Quick quotes

    Against the Loveless World is a taut novel

    contends with what it means to refuse the overlapping modes of violence

    a significant and thought-provoking read

Just One More Pa(i)ge · 2021-02-05
powerful 4.50

The book delivers an emotional impact with powerful writing and intellectual criticism. It's a compelling read that leaves a lasting impression.

This reviewer was struck by the emotional intensity of the novel, comparing its impact to that of a freight train. They appreciated the depth of intellectual criticism woven into the narrative, highlighting the author's phenomenal writing skills. The story's exploration of complex themes and its ability to evoke strong emotions make it a standout read. They also noted that the book's emotional resonance lingers long after finishing it, making it a memorable and impactful experience.

Quick quotes

    Against the Loveless World hits with the emotional impact of a freight train

    the intellectual criticism to support it

    phenomenal writing

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