Ishmael's Oranges

It’s April 1948, and war hangs over Jaffa.
One minute seven-year-old Salim is dreaming of taking his first harvest from the family’s orange tree; the next he is swept away into a life of exile and rage. Seeking a new beginning in swinging-’60s London, Salim falls in love with Jude. The only problem? Jude is Jewish.
A captivating story about love and loss, Ishmael’s Oranges follows the story of two families spanning the crossroad events of modern times, and of the legacy of hatred their children inherit.

‘Timely and captivating, Ishmael's Oranges is beautifully crafted.’ ― Elif Shafak, author of Three Daughters of Eve.

‘Richly, hauntingly written… immeasurably beautiful.’ ― Independent.

‘Compelling.’ ― Association of Jewish Libraries.

‘In her first novel, Hajaj, who herself shares both Palestinian and Jewish heritage, shines a revealing spotlight on the consequences of deeply embedded prejudices.’ ― Booklist.

‘If anyone can make a compelling, thought-provoking and honest story out of these disparate viewpoints, it’s Hajaj.’ ― The National.