The Last Chapter: A Novel

by Abouzeid, Layla

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Samantha Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this gem of a book on my honeymoon. Enjoyed from the beginning and got a great kick out of the end. Recommend!

[Aziza · Rating 2 out of 5]

Originally written in Arabic and then translated into English (before being translated into French!) this semi-autobiographical novel is about how a young woman called Aisha deals with opposing forces in post-colonial Morocco. Her tone is at times witty, but mostly sarcastic and bitter due to her disappointing childhood friend, boss, leaders, and even lovers. The way Morocco was changing before the turn of the century is still accurate today; Aisha is the prototype of many young (wo)men today who love their country, its ancient beauty and Islam, yet also love progress, openness, justice, and more choices for (wo)men. Although Abouzeid provides the reader with a lot of information and food for thought in this short, interesting novel, the biting tone made me empathize less with the main character than the author must have intended.