This is an absolutely, incredible first novel. It puts a stark, human face on the Middle East unrest, and on the atrocities faced by the Palestinians. Yes, we need education; yes, we need peace; and we need more eloquent stories like The Almond Tree to achieve those goals.

This novel was very brutal in it's rendering of life in occupied territory. The constant stress of trying to feed your family and make a life for yourself all overshadowed by racism and terrorism and intolerance. It made for a good discussion.