This book does some interesting things, some irksome things, some questionable things. It feels crafted to evoke a particular reaction from particular people, and I tend not to like when I can see the stitching in a story, so to speak. Though I more enjoyed the story than not, and appreciate that it was a technically sound, fluid experience, I leave off feeling conflicted.

I really appreciated the honest, raw perspective of Rothman-Zecher, one that's not often seen or allowed to be seen in American society. I could have done with a longer book, as I was thoroughly absorbed in Jonathan's story when it ended, but it's okay. :)

It makes you feel uncomfortable to be faced with the never-ending conflict of Palestine & Israel head-on in such a novel, to be confronted with the perspectives, each given, in my opinion, a vocal role in the story. It’s uncomfortable, unpleasant, and sad. The hope in this novel is brief and elusive, but it’s still a very good read.

Beautifully told story.

two stars because i did not like the weird sex scenes between the main character and his twin bffs. SO ODD. and because i need conclusion.

This is a very strong debut novel from Moriel Rothman-Zecher. It addresses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in a touching and humanizing way, with a young protagonist questioning his personal beliefs, family history, and role in the ongoing violence. My only critique of the book is that it takes a while to hit its stride, but has the reader firmly in its grip by the end. Overall, a powerful narrative and definitely worth a read.

Thanks to the published and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

An emotional roller coaster ride. The work of fiction was most difficult for me to bear. A description of the attrocities committed by clearly unbalanced IDF soldiers in 1956 filled me with dread and despair. The author's portrayal of first love countered this anger and sadness. I will never abide by the violence committed in the name of Israel's security. However, I am loathe to express my abhorence, since anti-Semites lie in wait to pounce. Constructive criticism of Israel is productive; comparing the IDF to Nazis does nothing but incite more violence. If there is one message here, it is violence begets violence.
The author chose teenagers as the protagonists. Teenagers, in the later teen years before their 20's, impulsively act and react. Testosterone fuels young men to flash and crash at critical touchpoints; they throw jagged rocks and pull the trigger on IDF provided weapons. Beautiful, strong bodies clash in a struggle that results in death on both sides. No one acts reasonably.
There is a greater likelihood that middle aged and older adults will talk to one another. Mellowed and nuanced, they view themselves as victims and perpetrators simultaneously, but not so the recent high school graduates who are drafted.
I connect events in history. Therefore, the unwarranted murder of Palestinian villagers on pp. 132-33 was abhorrent to me. My mind wandered to the Nazi instigated murders in the forests of eastern Europe.
There is much to say about this gorgeously written novel--the poetry, imagery, and setting. The story was a poignant one, with no resolution, symbolic of the continued conflict in Israel and Palestine.