Hana: The Audacity To Be Free

by Hana Assafiri

The constant search for autonomy and freedom is in every woman.

Hana Assafiri is a much-loved and revered social activist and radical entrepreneur. Through the medium of food and dining in her renowned Moroccan Soup Bar, she has worked tirelessly to rectify the systemic and social barriers to women’s empowerment.

Hana’s memoir follows her childhood between Lebanon and Australia, her marriage, her attempts to leave, and her ensuing career in women’s services. In 1998, she opened the Moroccan Soup Bar, which would quickly become an iconic Melbourne institution—founded on the radical notion that marginalised women, together in the kitchen, can effect social change.

‘A powerful call to action … Hana’s story of survival is a testament to resilience, the strength of women and our collective solidarity—when we stand together, we are unstoppable.’

—Antoinette Braybrook AM

216 pages, Paperback

Published May 1, 2024

Reviews

[Sam Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went to Hana’s book opening in Nipaluna. Scraped the barrel of my bank account and bought her book as I was so inspired by her words and presence in the talk.

A woman who has dedicated her life to striving for change and fighting inequality for women and all forms of social justice.

Listening to her speak put goosebumps on my arms and brought water to the eyes.

Thankyou Hana.

**this book is about the morrocan soup bar in North Fitzroy**

**Hana started the morrocan soup bar as a haven for women experiencing DV as she was grappling with life after leaving her own abusive husband**

**read if u want to feel inspired**

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew Hana from the Moroccan Soup Bar and the legendary chickpea bake which still holds a dear creamy/crunchy place in my heart. I loved the spoken menu which seemed part GP consult, part chef, as if she was prescribing culinary remedies for what ails you. I knew it was a social enterprise but I didn’t fully grasp the significance of Hana and this place for victim-survivors of family violence, her own experiences and her advocacy for Muslim women. Hana is a force of nature. I went to the launch of this book because a friend was in the choir that performed, I’m so glad I did. Remarkable sounds, tastes and ideas that afternoon— she’s a formidable force for good.

[Julie Swann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing woman, beautiful book.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is no surprise that my dear friend Hana Assafiri chose to title her memoir The Audacity to Be Free. From the very first page, you can feel the audaciousness coursing through the veins of this incredible book.

Assafiri’s journey, as laid bare in her narrative, is both deeply intimate and universally resonant. Her stories, often painful and at times gut-wrenching, are recounted with a grace and dignity that are profoundly empowering.

But this story is more than a personal account. It is a call to action, demanding equity and social justice. It insists on the power and importance of solidarity across our differences, urging readers to reimagine what it means to live authentically in a world currently rife with division, violence and inequality.

The raw honesty of her experiences is balanced by her unwavering strength, making this book a beacon of resilience and inspiration. A book for the times, The Audacity to Be Free is a testament to the power of self-determination and the courage it takes to live one’s truth. Assafiri’s voice is as fierce as it is inspiring, making this memoir an essential read for anyone ready to embrace audacity and advocate for a more just and equitable world.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A raw account of this amazing woman's courage and strength. If you only ready one book this year, if you only read one book ever, may it be this one. Reading the honesty Hana Assafiri shared and laid bare, I cried, for the child she was, so hurt and yet I was in such awe at how she never gave up, never lost who she truly was, even in the face of those who abused her and tried to break her.
Hana is a braveheart, a heroine in her own right, one who has pushed beyond it all. She who has wholeheartedly and steadfastly continued to love and shown kindness and humanity to others, even though she had known so much hurt and pain. All who know her and have been blessed by her tireless and persistent desire to help others, in their time of need, she was there, and they love her. She has made such a difference to so many.
This beautiful and humble human being, leads by example and with a humble heart challenges us to make a difference, even in the smallest ways.
Thank you Hana Assafiri for having the Audacity to be Free. God bless you and keep you strong as you continue in your wonderful works that are founded in love.
Kindness, the greatest gift we may give to one another.

[Cherry 🍒 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana gives readers a raw insight into her life with the mission of inspiring others to persist in reclaiming their autonomy and authentic expression in the face of adversity and violent subjugation.

Whilst Hana’s memoir centres heavily on awareness of / triumph over abuse and violence against women, people from all walks of life can find a nugget of empowerment within the pages. This is achieved as we read of the authors unwavering dedication to finding liberation in circumstances that relentlessly seek to oppress her.

The book reads effortlessly. The words transport the reader from the whimsy of Hana’s family Salon in Lebanon where women would gather to talk, dress up and eat the finest food they could gather in impoverished conditions to the exquisite aromas and vibrant atmosphere of Hana’s restaurant the Moroccan Soup Bar in Australia. Furthermore, through dark themes - the author weaves wit and humour which adds charm and a sense of hope to the overall tone of the book.

Thank you Hana for giving us an insight into your life and contributing to the wider conversation of violence against women and breaking down barriers built by other that seek to limit self expression.

[Cassie Serpell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not just a compelling, beautifully written read. Within its pages lies a recipe to heal the world! No kidding. Hana sensitively shares the traumas of her childhood and her relentless quest to live a life of her choosing. In doing so, Hana courageously follows her intuition and discovers her capacity to help others. The help Hana offers and provides to ‘others’ builds like scattered snowflakes that grow to an almighty avalanche of good. Individuals to masses. Hana’s journey is one where her very oppression is turned on its head. That oppression is transformed to ultimately provide Hana with a platform from which she creatively delivers much more than delectable, nourishing food. Part gladiator, part diplomat Hana’s tenacity, and her creative foresight, provide a deeply moving, empowering blueprint. Hana’s words form a magnificent call to arms, delivered, of course, in the most thoughtful and beautiful way.

[Hutch Hussein · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing biography capturing an amazing life. Raw, honest and inspiring. It was great to learn more about Hana’s journey to Australia, sad to read about how she deepened her resilience and determination from childhood sexual abuse and a violent relationship which ostracised her from her sons and then terrific to hear how the Moroccan Soup Bar was more than just a place to eat but an empowering place of employment for women fleeing violent relationships. As if the chickpea bake wasn’t enough, this place was a lighthouse for so many women. And then her determination to bridge cultural divides between Muslims and non Muslims. Grippingly reading and told by the author herself on the highly recommended Spotify or Apple audiobook.

[Nilima Pelz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holds you captive from start to end, each word, each thought crafted to be contemplated, savoured and devoured, just like each morsel of food at her iconic Moroccan Soup Bar - the Melbourne institution, where, in her words, "you pay for the conversation, the food is free".
Hana's experience of growing up in two cultures amid war, abuse and violence, challenging societal constraints and personal trauma, standing up for herself and encouraging others to have the "audacity to be free".
A riveting yarn, nurturing, uplifting, full of hope - absolutely inspirational! A book every man and every woman must read. Un-put-downable.

[Moira Finucane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a once in a lifetime. It is powerful, generous, strong, warm. It comes back to me as a roadmap for change and defiance of the battlegrounds that are laid out for us: for opposition, for left and right, oppressor and oppressed, men and women, religion and secular culture, success and failure. Hana is a rule breaker, a powerful and generous one. She won't pick up her oppressors tools, she makes new and generous tools, and we can feel them in our hands and our hearts as we continue our lives after reading this book. If you want to understand hospitality and hope, read this book.

[Ange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana: The Audacity to Be Free speaks profoundly to anyone who understands the courage it takes to keep going and to inspire change. Coming from a background of advocating for inclusion and belonging, I found Hana’s journey of vulnerability and relentless optimism deeply personal. Her ability to stand firm for what is right, driven by a vision of a better world for all, resonates with anyone who believes in the power of a single person to make a difference. Hana’s story is a testament to resilience and a reminder that change often begins with one determined soul.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana’s life is an inspiration for many, having been able to turn many unfortunate experiences into a creative, genuine, compassionate path that you can perceive in the pages of this book.
An amazing story told in short chapters, from cooking meals in the kitchen to hosting conversation salons, there is something for everyone to help connect the dots of women’s fight for their rights all around the world, understanding that women’s fight for freedom and justice are a global cause.

[Larissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An elegant memoir, the issues raised taking precedence over intimate personal details. The book offers an insight into how female audaciousness is an undervalued muscle. It encourages a path where curiosity rather than a 'what' to think can lead to positive outcomes for all and how giving from an intuitive foundation really is the answer (and baklava!). Good for late teens and educators.

[Michele Travers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in two days, everything I had planned on doing was pushed aside. Needless to say I loved it, I cried in parts but I also smiled, simply because it so inspiring.
This wonderfully warm woman is living proof that you can overcome the worst kind of adversity. I highly recommend reading it, just make sure you have some time set aside, you won't want to put it down.

[Toltu Tufa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the very public personality is a journey into the private places and spaces Hana has rarely spoken about publicly. Written with the same of her recipes that nourished us all, Hana shares her story that continues to unravel as she continues to hold space for us beyond the pages of her beautifully written book. Highly recommended read!

[Sarah Langmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana's story is beautifully told-a story of a woman who lives all parts of her life with arm enormous humanity and consciousness. Hana writes engagingly and with enormous delicacy- covering devastating life experiences whilst protecting herself and the reader from superfluous distress. Hana's story is such an inspiration.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every now and then you come across a book that educates you, moves you and ultimately changes you! This is one of those books a must read for everyone men and women! You can’t help but be inspired by Hana’s courage and strength to overcome and just as importantly the move forward and never stand still, standup to injustice and thrive! Amazing!

[Jessica Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was such an absolute joy and inspiration to meet Hana and hear her speak from the heart about this book and her journey through life. Shocking on my behalf that it’s taken me this long to finally get around to reading it but I am influenced by her bravery and courageousness. A great read for all my feminists and activists out there and anyone with a heart

[Naomi Halpern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana tells her story with courage, grace and compassion. The deep respect she holds for all people, across cultures, genders, belief systems and politics shines throughout with a cheeky sense of humour that balances the seriousness of her message. Hana’s memoir is timely and highly recommended.

[Dani Paulson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book after attending Hana's author talk. I really enjoyed this book, some very raw and tough content explored but well written.