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Birds of Paradise

by Diana Abu-Jaber
Norton. Sept. 2011. 384p. ISBN 9780393064612. $25.95.
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OrangeReviewStarFelice abandoned home when she was 13 to skateboard and live in a squat on the beach. Now almost 18, she dwells on the sad secret that drove her away from her parents and older brother, just as they anguish over her disappearance. Since Abu-Jaber has proved particularly adept at relaying the complex push-and-pull of human relationships in sharp, finely tuned language (see Origin and Arabian Jazz), I expect her rendering of a too-common family tragedy to be especially smart and affecting. Really looking forward to this one; with a five-city tour.
Felice abandoned home when she was 13 to skateboard and live in a squat on the beach. Now almost 18, she dwells on the sad secret that drove her away from her parents and older brother, just as they anguish over her disappearance. Since Abu-Jaber has proved particularly adept at relaying the complex push-and-pull of human relationships in sharp, finely tuned language (see Origin and Arabian Jazz), I expect her rendering of a too-common family tragedy to be especially smart and affecting. Really looking forward to this one; with a five-city tour.
Reviewed by Barbara Hoffert , Apr 15, 2011
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