The Lemon Tree (Young Readers' Edition): An Arab, A Jew, and the Heart of the Middle East

Excellent book. Amazing recount of everything that went on and is still going on in Israel. Well written for adults as well

An interesting tale set among a history of tragedy & longing. A traumatized people traumatizing. It's heartbreaking. I didn't realize I was getting the young readers' edition but it was not 'dumbed down' so it's fine for an adult reader as well.

I was not very educated on the history of this region and why such differences existed. Now I have a deeper understanding of the conflict; this book showcases the beliefs and concerns of both people and gives insight to the perspective of each culture.

I have been blessed to visit the Holy Land of Israel (FKA Palestine) three times. Each time, I learn more truth about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While this review will not share my thoughts on the conflict (considering there are similar conflicts here in America), I will share that this book caused me to re-think my thoughts and positions. Fortunately for me, I have been able to hear various perspectives over the states of Israel/Palestine, the West Bank, Gaza, and much of the conflict in the Middle East, This book has really shifted my perception. Going into this book, I was not expecting this to be a book that challenges my thinking, follows the story of two families, and tell of their history over decades of time. Granted, the synopsis provides a hint of that, but this was not what I was expecting in the best way possible. The Lemon Tree provides the bond/connection of the Khairi's and Eshkenazi's. This is a significant/important read for many.

Interesting read. Especially during this turbulent time. It points out the many sides to a single issue. Definitely worth reading. I found it a bit dragging…..but maybe it was just the heaviness of the topic. I’m glad I bought the young adult version.

Uninteresting read, wouldn't recommend

This was a great concise background into the Middle East issues. It’s a perfect read for young readers trying to understand the conflicts. Thank you.

Bashir is Palestinian. His family lived in Palestine for centuries, and the house were he lived and fled war from was built with his father's own hands. He loves Palestine and hates the occupation by Israel.Dalia is Jewish. She came to Israel from Bulgaria as a baby. Her parents were looking for a home in Israel and found it in Bashir's house. She loves Israel but is starting to think critically about the treatment of Palestine.Told in alternating chapters, the book shares Bashir's and Dalia's conflicting desire for the same thing: a home.This is the youth adaptation of the non-fiction book for adults. I have not read the adult version, but I believe that this does a good job of simplifying the issues without dumbing them down at all.Highly recommended.**I read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**