2023 is a remarkable year in the world of literature. Many literary treasures across various genres have captivated readers. Books penned by Arab and Muslim authors are no different. These narratives shed light on the resilience and strength of the people, reflecting the present-day situation in the Arab and Muslim communities. 

Enter Ghost by Isabella Hamad

Isabella Hamad's second novel beautifully captures the essence of present-day Palestine, exploring themes of diaspora, displacement, family connections, and shared resistance. The story follows Actress Sonia Nasir returning to Haifa after a long time. She plans to visit her sister Haneen, who lives there. Sonia's life in London focused on acting and a troubled marriage. This visit stirs feelings about Palestine. She meets a director, Mariam, and gets involved in a Hamlet play in the West Bank. Despite challenges, Sonia discovers the chance to embrace a new self in her family's homeland.

Between Two Moons by Aisha Abdel Gawad

'Between Two Moons' is a beautifully written family tale that explores life under Islamophobia. It encourages readers to question their beliefs about faith, family, and community, offering insights into the experiences of young Muslims in America. The story follows twin sisters planning for a summer of festivities and freedom before they graduate and reach adulthood. However, their plans are disrupted by their older brother's mysterious behavior after returning from prison. Consequently, a protest in Bay Ridge happened, and the unity of the Arab community was put to the test. Amid disquiet and uncertainty, Amira and Lina grapple with trust issues and the challenges faced by their family and neighborhood. 

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An Unlasting Home by Mai Al-Nakib

'An Unlasting Home' follows Kuwait's journey from a small pearl-diving town in the 1920s to a bustling cosmopolitan city. This book also depicts the aftermath of the Iraqi invasion. The story spans from the past to the near present, offering an unforgettable family saga that blends personal and political narratives. The book focuses on Sara, a philosophy professor in Kuwait who returned from Berkeley. Sara has mixed feelings about Kuwait but stays there. When she faces a threat due to teaching Nietzsche, she realizes she must confront her feelings and find her place in the world. The story also shares the tales of Sara's grandmothers and mothers, providing a rich narrative of their lives and choices.

Shubeik Lubeik by Deena Mohamed

Mohamed's debut novel envisions an alternate Cairo where wishes come true. 'Shubeik Lubeik,' meaning 'your wish is my command' in Arabic, follows three individuals navigating a world where wishes can be bought and sold. Aziza, Nour, and Shokry. Aziza, dealing with loss, fights for her wish against challenges. Nour, a college student with depression, debates whether to use their wish to fix it. Shokry faces a dilemma rooted in his religious beliefs while helping a friend with their wish. Deena Mohamed tells their stories with fantastical elements, like talking donkeys and dragons, with relatable and touching struggles and triumphs.

Evil Eye by Etaf Rum

Etaf Rum's second book depicts a complicated mother-daughter drama. It explores the lasting impact of generational trauma and the challenges of breaking the cycle of abuse. Yara, a Palestinian-American art lecturer and mom, faces the result of a sheltered life. A clash with a colleague puts her on probation and in therapy. Despite overcoming family restrictions to build a career and family, her conservative upbringing and superstitions resurface as her mother attributes her challenges to a family curse.

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