"Our families are filled with the secrets that harbour the pain of our displacement." This book was incredible. The way the author placed the reader in the story, even though the experiences in the book are so different to that of most Westerners, was amazing. It was also even more poignant knowing that this story is based on some of the author's real experiences, and it was certainly thought-provoking. As much as this story is a profound and harrowing tale of multiple generations and the hidden histories of war and displacement, it is also a wake-up call, and I know of many people who should read this book.

This book wrecked me in the best way. Zeina Sleiman crafts a deeply personal yet widely resonant story of Palestinian identity, displacement, and the weight of memory. It’s about loss, survival, and how history lingers in the smallest moments, in jasmine-scented air and family stories passed down like heirlooms. The Palestinian representation feels raw and honest, showing the complexity of holding onto a homeland that exists more in memory than in reality. I really loved the way that the ongoing political history and climate was woven in. Nakba, occupation, and forced exile and displacement were discussed not as distant tragedies but as lived realities that are shaping every generation. I feel like it truly captures the weight of what it means to be a Palestinian refugee (though do I by no means actually know what that is like), including the grief, the erasure, and the constant resistance to just exist. She explores intergenerational trauma, belonging, and the resilience of love and culture, in such a beautiful way. This read was emotional, political, and deeply personal. If you’ve ever felt like home is something you have to fight to define, this one will stay with you.

Where the Jasmine Blooms by Zeina Sleiman is a beautifully layered exploration of love, family, and identity that resonated deeply with me. Yasmine's journey from heartbreak in Toronto to uncovering long-hidden truths in Lebanon felt incredibly authentic and emotionally rich. Her struggle to reconcile her past while finding a sense of belonging was both moving and relatable. The bond between Yasmine and her cousin Reem added a powerful dynamic, showcasing resilience and hope against the backdrop of personal and political upheaval. The mystery of the letters and the search for her father infused the story with suspense, pulling me further into the narrative. Sleiman’s vivid descriptions of Lebanon—the scents of jasmine, the bustling streets, the quiet moments at Merriford Manor—brought the setting to life and made it a character in its own right.
What struck me most was the novel’s ability to balance deeply personal struggles with larger themes of displacement and identity. It’s not just a story of family secrets but a testament to the strength it takes to piece oneself back together. This book lingers with you, both for its beautifully crafted prose and the heartfelt emotions it evokes. Truly a standout read that left a lasting impression.