The Arsonists' City

Bookseller recommendation

“I really enjoyed this slow burning family drama about long held secrets, holding on to your heritage, and sibling relationships...The complexities in all her characters and their relationships is impressive and I love that no one was perfect. There was no easy resolutions or come-to-Jesus moments but instead just becoming comfortable with being imperfect. I love the general theme that everyone deserves to have their secrets. Lots gets revealed about the Nasr family, things that could blow up and rip the family apart, but instead of letting them ruin things, the family comes to terms with the idea that though certain things are true, the revealing of them can be more harmful than helpful. There was a great dissection of race, class, and identity among the family members. The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Leila Buck and her voice perfect encapsulated all three siblings and Mazna, crossing eras and genders and even having a brief singing moment that was truly magical. All in all, I was deeply engrossed in this story and the beautifully written words would stick with me throughout my day. I would find myself disappointed that perspectives shift only to be just as enamored with the next part, always learning to care deeply about each character despite any flaws. This book is great for any literary fiction lover and those that like well written characters and relationships.”

— Kimi • Buttonwood Books and Toys