Book details
The Shepherd's Granddaughter
Description
Ever since she was a little girl, Amani has wanted to be a shepherd, just like her beloved grandfather, Sido. For generations her family has grazed sheep above the olive groves of the family homestead near Hebron. But now Amani's family home is being threatened by encroaching Jewish settlements. As Amani struggles to find increasingly rare grazing land for her starving sheep, her uncle and brother are tempted to take a more militant stance against the settlers. Then she meets Jonathan, an American boy visiting his father. Away from the pressures of their families, and despite their differences, the two young people discover a secret meadow where Amani can graze her sheep. A moving novel about one of the most hotly disputed pieces of land on earth.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
226 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'The Shepherd's Granddaughter' offers readers a unique perspective into the life of a Palestinian family, their connection to the land, and their struggles. It's an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of a culture and a way of life that may be unfamiliar to many readers.
- Character Development: The protagonist, Amani, is a strong and relatable character whose journey and growth throughout the story can inspire readers. Witnessing her challenges and how she overcomes them can provide valuable lessons in resilience and determination.
- Exploration of Conflict: The book delves into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, providing a nuanced view of the issues faced by those living in the midst of it. Reading this story can help individuals better comprehend the human side of political conflicts.
- Promotion of Empathy: By presenting the narrative from the perspective of a young girl caught in a difficult situation, 'The Shepherd's Granddaughter' encourages readers to empathize with people from different backgrounds and to consider the impact of larger geopolitical issues on individual lives.