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Un foulard pour Djelila
For readers of The Tyrant’s Daughter, Out of Nowhere, and I Am Malala, this poignant story about two Muslim sisters is about love, loss, religion, forgiveness, women’s rights, and freedom.
Two sisters. Two lives. One future.
Sohane loves no one more than her beautiful, carefree younger sister, Djelila. And she hates no one as much. They used to share everything. But now, Djelila is spending more time with her friends, partying, and hanging out with boys, while Sohane is becoming more religious.
When Sohane starts wearing a head scarf, her school threatens to expel her. Meanwhile, Djelila is harassed by neighborhood bullies for not being Muslim enough. Sohane can’t help thinking that Djelila deserves what she gets. But she never could have imagined just how far things would go. . .
Two sisters. Two lives. One future.
Sohane loves no one more than her beautiful, carefree younger sister, Djelila. And she hates no one as much. They used to share everything. But now, Djelila is spending more time with her friends, partying, and hanging out with boys, while Sohane is becoming more religious.
When Sohane starts wearing a head scarf, her school threatens to expel her. Meanwhile, Djelila is harassed by neighborhood bullies for not being Muslim enough. Sohane can’t help thinking that Djelila deserves what she gets. But she never could have imagined just how far things would go. . .
Paperback
First published March 9, 2005
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About the author
Amélie Sarn
202 books11 followersAmélie Sarn-Cantin, née le 4 mars 1970, est une romancière française, illustratrice de bandes dessinées et traductrice. Après avoir passé son enfance à la campagne et quelques années à l’université de Rennes, elle décide de se consacrer uniquement à l’écriture.
En avril 2002, Sarn publie son premier roman pour adultes Elle ne pleure pas, elle chante. On lui doit aussi l’adaptation du fameux dessin animé de Sylvain Chomet Les Triplettes de Belleville.
En 2006, elle prend le relais de Geneviève Huriet en tant qu’auteure de la série des La Famille Passiflore avec Qu'as-tu fait, Mistouflet ? et L'Album photo des Passiflore.
Le travail de Sarn a été publié en France par les éditions Milan, Rageot, Albin Michel, les enfants rouges et les éditions J'ai lu.
Elle vit aujourd’hui à Bordeaux où, pour ses enfants mais aussi les autres, elle écrit de nombreux livres pour la jeunesse dont Coupable d'être innocent et Une vie de rêve pour Lola (éd. Rageot), Le pirate couve la grippe, Un fantôme très rigolo, La Nuit de la chauve-souris et Le Bûcher aux sorcières (éd. Milan).
Sous le pseudo de Méli-Marlo, elle a coécrit avec M. Cantin Le Cirque Patatrac et Un petit garçon trop pressé.
Elle s’essaie maintenant au métier de scénariste de BD en cosignant avec Éric Corbeyran, la série Nanami dessinée par Magali Lacombe et éditée par Dargaud.
En avril 2002, Sarn publie son premier roman pour adultes Elle ne pleure pas, elle chante. On lui doit aussi l’adaptation du fameux dessin animé de Sylvain Chomet Les Triplettes de Belleville.
En 2006, elle prend le relais de Geneviève Huriet en tant qu’auteure de la série des La Famille Passiflore avec Qu'as-tu fait, Mistouflet ? et L'Album photo des Passiflore.
Le travail de Sarn a été publié en France par les éditions Milan, Rageot, Albin Michel, les enfants rouges et les éditions J'ai lu.
Elle vit aujourd’hui à Bordeaux où, pour ses enfants mais aussi les autres, elle écrit de nombreux livres pour la jeunesse dont Coupable d'être innocent et Une vie de rêve pour Lola (éd. Rageot), Le pirate couve la grippe, Un fantôme très rigolo, La Nuit de la chauve-souris et Le Bûcher aux sorcières (éd. Milan).
Sous le pseudo de Méli-Marlo, elle a coécrit avec M. Cantin Le Cirque Patatrac et Un petit garçon trop pressé.
Elle s’essaie maintenant au métier de scénariste de BD en cosignant avec Éric Corbeyran, la série Nanami dessinée par Magali Lacombe et éditée par Dargaud.
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July 1, 2015
This review can also be found on A Thousand Lives Lived, check it out for more!
For readers who enjoyed The Tyrant's Daughter? Yeah... Not so much. I actually did read that one and ADORED it fully which is one of the reasons and factors that took me to request a copy of this book. I was lurking around YA fiction for diversity and something new that would catch my eye with the contemporary aspect. To be honest, this wasn't what I was expecting and just a meh-read that thankfully was short and sweet.
I Love I Hate I Miss My Sister is a nice tale of sisterhood and loss, as well as politics and human rights. Looking at the way I feel when looking at the cover, I don't think that I'd recommend this one to anyone, unless you're very fond of a variety of novels that have diversity. The diversity part of it was a big factor that played to me giving this a high rating. Other than that, I didn't enjoy the rest of the book. Let's just narrow it down to a 'What I Liked' and 'What I Disliked' review, because this is just a tiny book, anyways.
My summary consists of the basics. This is about two sisters: Sohane and Djelila. (To be honest, I even had to check the summary because I forgot Sohane's name. Whoops?) They're basically total opposites—Sohane is very religious while Djelila basically couldn't care less about the way she dressed up. She just wants to be normal. Sohane doesn't really mind what her sister does because she's her own person, but eventually things go too far when Djelila gets harassed and things go farther than they're supposed to. Not to mention Sohane being made fun of when she wears a head scarf to school.
What I Liked/Enjoyed About this Book:
-The pacing. While reading, you'll realize that you've never read such a quick read in your life, speaking of YA books. Sarn's story doesn't need much explaining, as there's so much more between the lines that readers need to figure out before, during, and after reading that the 152 pages just flew by so quickly. It took me about an hour to read, honestly. It blasts from different points so quickly. Enjoy that, my friends.
-The characters. Sohane honestly is the coolest chick around who has so much love and affection for the people around her that it's amazing. You think you've seen a gorgeous sibling relationship? You haven't until you've read this book. And most of the novel revolves around that relationship, just take a peek at the title. Sarn definitely knew what she was doing while forming the memorable relationship that shapes these kinds of diverse reads.
-Learning about the religion. Islam is a religion that I hear of quite often, but I don't know much about it except the typical things: the headscarfs or the holidays that the religion has. Reading from the perspective of a young girl who's very religious was a wonderful experience for me, and it's given me a broader understanding, actually. Double yay for that point.
What I Disliked About this Book:
-Something. I'm not exactly sure what it was still to this day, but I found it boring and I guess the premise is too overused in contemporary? Not the diversity aspect, but the whole loss thing? It didn't make me sad and lacked emotion, which leads me to my next point.
-No emotions involved in the writing. I couldn't feel depth, or sadness or happiness. This was just a straight monotone read, which might kind of frustrate readers for the length of the novel. Maybe if it had been longer, there would've been better writing? I don't know, actually.
All together, these two negative points affected my enjoyment of the novel by quite a bit, just letting you know. Remember—it's all about the quality, not quantity.
I Love I Hate I Miss My Sister could've been amazing, I feel. The story had the potential to fly into the stars and bring the sun to me, but I didn't feel nothing coming from it, except nice characters and a good use of diversity. But that was the author's choice. She had the choice to write about characters who are Muslim, and this brought the diversity up, which did impress me a lot. It's just... I found myself getting bored and seeing the lack of depth complete in this short book. Maybe, just maybe, some others will enjoy this more than I did. I guess you could. Take a shot, if you feel like it, but I'm not saying that I'm completely recommending it at all.
For readers who enjoyed The Tyrant's Daughter? Yeah... Not so much. I actually did read that one and ADORED it fully which is one of the reasons and factors that took me to request a copy of this book. I was lurking around YA fiction for diversity and something new that would catch my eye with the contemporary aspect. To be honest, this wasn't what I was expecting and just a meh-read that thankfully was short and sweet.
I Love I Hate I Miss My Sister is a nice tale of sisterhood and loss, as well as politics and human rights. Looking at the way I feel when looking at the cover, I don't think that I'd recommend this one to anyone, unless you're very fond of a variety of novels that have diversity. The diversity part of it was a big factor that played to me giving this a high rating. Other than that, I didn't enjoy the rest of the book. Let's just narrow it down to a 'What I Liked' and 'What I Disliked' review, because this is just a tiny book, anyways.
"It is for Djelila that we cry today. She is not a symbol of a broken youth and even less the symbol of divide between two cultures. Djelila was none of that. All Djelila wanted was to live, that is all. We are here for our sister, the sister we will not forget, our sister, Djelila."
My summary consists of the basics. This is about two sisters: Sohane and Djelila. (To be honest, I even had to check the summary because I forgot Sohane's name. Whoops?) They're basically total opposites—Sohane is very religious while Djelila basically couldn't care less about the way she dressed up. She just wants to be normal. Sohane doesn't really mind what her sister does because she's her own person, but eventually things go too far when Djelila gets harassed and things go farther than they're supposed to. Not to mention Sohane being made fun of when she wears a head scarf to school.
What I Liked/Enjoyed About this Book:
-The pacing. While reading, you'll realize that you've never read such a quick read in your life, speaking of YA books. Sarn's story doesn't need much explaining, as there's so much more between the lines that readers need to figure out before, during, and after reading that the 152 pages just flew by so quickly. It took me about an hour to read, honestly. It blasts from different points so quickly. Enjoy that, my friends.
-The characters. Sohane honestly is the coolest chick around who has so much love and affection for the people around her that it's amazing. You think you've seen a gorgeous sibling relationship? You haven't until you've read this book. And most of the novel revolves around that relationship, just take a peek at the title. Sarn definitely knew what she was doing while forming the memorable relationship that shapes these kinds of diverse reads.
-Learning about the religion. Islam is a religion that I hear of quite often, but I don't know much about it except the typical things: the headscarfs or the holidays that the religion has. Reading from the perspective of a young girl who's very religious was a wonderful experience for me, and it's given me a broader understanding, actually. Double yay for that point.
What I Disliked About this Book:
-Something. I'm not exactly sure what it was still to this day, but I found it boring and I guess the premise is too overused in contemporary? Not the diversity aspect, but the whole loss thing? It didn't make me sad and lacked emotion, which leads me to my next point.
-No emotions involved in the writing. I couldn't feel depth, or sadness or happiness. This was just a straight monotone read, which might kind of frustrate readers for the length of the novel. Maybe if it had been longer, there would've been better writing? I don't know, actually.
All together, these two negative points affected my enjoyment of the novel by quite a bit, just letting you know. Remember—it's all about the quality, not quantity.
I Love I Hate I Miss My Sister could've been amazing, I feel. The story had the potential to fly into the stars and bring the sun to me, but I didn't feel nothing coming from it, except nice characters and a good use of diversity. But that was the author's choice. She had the choice to write about characters who are Muslim, and this brought the diversity up, which did impress me a lot. It's just... I found myself getting bored and seeing the lack of depth complete in this short book. Maybe, just maybe, some others will enjoy this more than I did. I guess you could. Take a shot, if you feel like it, but I'm not saying that I'm completely recommending it at all.
March 6, 2018
Have you ever regretted not picking up a book sooner?
This is the case for me now!
I can’t believe this book has been lying on my TBR shelf for so long and I only picked it up because I was in dire need of a short read to meet my reading goals before years end.
It’s a story about two close sisters, Sohane and Djelila, and how they have kind of drifted apart.
Algerians, born and raised in France, Sohane was in a love/hate relationship with her sister, Djelila, who have started to spend her days with her friends, partying and hanging out with boys, while she had become more religious.
Without saying any more, this less than a 200 pages book spoke volumes. I was totally taken aback by how much I have loved it.
It’s about religion, it’s about choices, feminist, and the right to fight for what you believe in.
It doesn’t have that great of a plot or writing but it perfectly portrayed to what a lot could relate to.
I totally recommend to all readers and I would especially recommend it to those who are looking to their first English book. This would be a great read to start with.
This is the case for me now!
I can’t believe this book has been lying on my TBR shelf for so long and I only picked it up because I was in dire need of a short read to meet my reading goals before years end.
It’s a story about two close sisters, Sohane and Djelila, and how they have kind of drifted apart.
Algerians, born and raised in France, Sohane was in a love/hate relationship with her sister, Djelila, who have started to spend her days with her friends, partying and hanging out with boys, while she had become more religious.
Without saying any more, this less than a 200 pages book spoke volumes. I was totally taken aback by how much I have loved it.
It’s about religion, it’s about choices, feminist, and the right to fight for what you believe in.
It doesn’t have that great of a plot or writing but it perfectly portrayed to what a lot could relate to.
I totally recommend to all readers and I would especially recommend it to those who are looking to their first English book. This would be a great read to start with.
February 8, 2015
DNF.
This was the book I was most excited to receive for my birthday. As someone who is not Muslim, I was eager for the insight into a different culture. I was mildly disappointed to learn that the author was not writing out of experience, but she seemed to have done her research about the Muslim culture, so I tried to set aside that disappointment and judge the book on its own merit.
The first thing I noticed about the book was the stilted style. It doesn't flow smoothly. Because of the stiff phrasing, I found it difficult to immerse myself in the book. Part of this is undoubtedly due to the translation; as a French speaker, I will undoubtedly buy the book in French if I'm able to find it in Canada.
But the writing itself couldn't hold me. We begin with a prologue/preface in 3rd person, when the book is in 1st person perspective. I hate when authors do that, with no reason, but it isn't the first book I've read styled in this way, so I moved on.
I stopped reading when the 1st person perspective detailing Sohane's interactions with Djelila (3rd person: she) without warning switched to 2nd person (you). This book doesn't seem to know what it wants to be and that makes me sad, because I was really looking forward to it.
I'm sure some of you will tell me I should continue reading regardless, but these are things that truly annoy me when it comes to reading. If you're unsure whether you'd like to read the book yourself, I encourage you to give it a shot or try to find an excerpt and judge from that.
This was the book I was most excited to receive for my birthday. As someone who is not Muslim, I was eager for the insight into a different culture. I was mildly disappointed to learn that the author was not writing out of experience, but she seemed to have done her research about the Muslim culture, so I tried to set aside that disappointment and judge the book on its own merit.
The first thing I noticed about the book was the stilted style. It doesn't flow smoothly. Because of the stiff phrasing, I found it difficult to immerse myself in the book. Part of this is undoubtedly due to the translation; as a French speaker, I will undoubtedly buy the book in French if I'm able to find it in Canada.
But the writing itself couldn't hold me. We begin with a prologue/preface in 3rd person, when the book is in 1st person perspective. I hate when authors do that, with no reason, but it isn't the first book I've read styled in this way, so I moved on.
I stopped reading when the 1st person perspective detailing Sohane's interactions with Djelila (3rd person: she) without warning switched to 2nd person (you). This book doesn't seem to know what it wants to be and that makes me sad, because I was really looking forward to it.
I'm sure some of you will tell me I should continue reading regardless, but these are things that truly annoy me when it comes to reading. If you're unsure whether you'd like to read the book yourself, I encourage you to give it a shot or try to find an excerpt and judge from that.
August 21, 2020
Did I cry? Yes, I cried. This book was a very tough read. I had no idea what the writer intended to talk about when she aimed to write a story about two Muslim French-Algerian girls. I don’t prefer to say the book’s story in my reviews, but I feel like I must clarify it first so I can shift to the main points that she tried to light.
.
The story is about two teenagers’ sisters about 16-17 years old (Sohane & Djelila) who have a very lovely sister to sister relationship. They are French but their roots from Algeria (Arab people) and they are MUSLIMS. I typed it in big letters because this is the main hook here in the story. Things start to change when Sohane intended to wear her “head scurf” as she prefered to name at the school. In one of her classes the teacher asked her “what she's trying to represent by start wearing hijab/head scarf even though the French law forbids women to cover their hair”.
The school gave her the opportunity to choose between taking off the hijab or leaving the school. Sohane insisted to keep wearing it. She wants to show the real Arab Muslim girl she’s feeling inside herself. On the other hand, her sister Djelila is the opposite of her, she drinks, smokes, wears short skirts and of course not covering her hair. When Sohane did take that decision of started wearing Hjiab her sister and family supported her, but the French community didn’t.
In the story we see how much Sohane is identifying herself and trying to know the real her and if it is possible for the woman to be Muslim and woman at the same time and if she’s a real Muslim does she project the right image for those who around her?
The writer tried to show the opinion of Islam about smoking, so if the ‘right Muslim’ refused to grab a cigarette is it because the woman has no right to smoke as men do? Nope. BTW Islam doesn’t ‘prohibit’ smoking for both sexes men and women as the writer used the word 'prohibit' It is simply not likable and not good for human’s body as Messenger of Allah Mohammed (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
There should be neither harming (darar) nor reciprocating harm (dirar).
.
Another interesting concept that the writer discussed is how every topic of Islam is related to Afghanistan and Osama Bin Laden, and how women there are under pressure of forcing them to follow Islam in a strict way. And I really want to stop here to talk about the word “strict”, I am Muslim and I wear Hijab may be not in the right way that Islam asks for I mean to cover my full hair and wear large clothes to not show my body curves, but Islam also asks for good relationships, I mean it’s very cool if you’re a girl who follows the right Islam, but it’s not cool if you're not reflecting the right religion girl if you’re harming people and everyone hates you! Islam is a very great religion “not trying to convert anyone here” just having a way to express my thoughts.
.
Also, Sarn (the writer) talked about a very important issue which is how immigrants struggle between two cultures, I am immigrant myself and was born/raised/ living now in another country. I have my days wearing as people here wear and other days wearing a Jeans and a blouse, trying to cover my hair/ neck as much as I can, shifting between two different cultures is very hard although I’am not speaking the same accent (both countries are Arabian) by the way and to clarify more I'm really convinced with the way that I cover my hair and the way that I wear, I do ask myself if it's right do I need to change the way I dress, but until this point of my life I'm kind of satisfied.
.
The last 15 pages got me so bad I really can’t tell you how much I could relate to her, I mean all Muslim girls could relate to Sohane’s story. I always have this idea in my mind that if I went to a different country with people their are not Muslims/ not Arabs of course/ and women are not wearing Hijab how I will try to represent myself? without killing my true identity?
.
I do have a lot to say about this piece I really thank Sarn that she gave herself the opportunity as a French writer to talk about such a very sensitive idea which she inspired from a real story. I wish if every woman from another culture/ religion/ nationality gives herself a chance to put herself in Sohane & Djelila’s position and sees how things will change for her.
.
The story is about two teenagers’ sisters about 16-17 years old (Sohane & Djelila) who have a very lovely sister to sister relationship. They are French but their roots from Algeria (Arab people) and they are MUSLIMS. I typed it in big letters because this is the main hook here in the story. Things start to change when Sohane intended to wear her “head scurf” as she prefered to name at the school. In one of her classes the teacher asked her “what she's trying to represent by start wearing hijab/head scarf even though the French law forbids women to cover their hair”.
The school gave her the opportunity to choose between taking off the hijab or leaving the school. Sohane insisted to keep wearing it. She wants to show the real Arab Muslim girl she’s feeling inside herself. On the other hand, her sister Djelila is the opposite of her, she drinks, smokes, wears short skirts and of course not covering her hair. When Sohane did take that decision of started wearing Hjiab her sister and family supported her, but the French community didn’t.
In the story we see how much Sohane is identifying herself and trying to know the real her and if it is possible for the woman to be Muslim and woman at the same time and if she’s a real Muslim does she project the right image for those who around her?
The writer tried to show the opinion of Islam about smoking, so if the ‘right Muslim’ refused to grab a cigarette is it because the woman has no right to smoke as men do? Nope. BTW Islam doesn’t ‘prohibit’ smoking for both sexes men and women as the writer used the word 'prohibit' It is simply not likable and not good for human’s body as Messenger of Allah Mohammed (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
There should be neither harming (darar) nor reciprocating harm (dirar).
.
Another interesting concept that the writer discussed is how every topic of Islam is related to Afghanistan and Osama Bin Laden, and how women there are under pressure of forcing them to follow Islam in a strict way. And I really want to stop here to talk about the word “strict”, I am Muslim and I wear Hijab may be not in the right way that Islam asks for I mean to cover my full hair and wear large clothes to not show my body curves, but Islam also asks for good relationships, I mean it’s very cool if you’re a girl who follows the right Islam, but it’s not cool if you're not reflecting the right religion girl if you’re harming people and everyone hates you! Islam is a very great religion “not trying to convert anyone here” just having a way to express my thoughts.
.
Also, Sarn (the writer) talked about a very important issue which is how immigrants struggle between two cultures, I am immigrant myself and was born/raised/ living now in another country. I have my days wearing as people here wear and other days wearing a Jeans and a blouse, trying to cover my hair/ neck as much as I can, shifting between two different cultures is very hard although I’am not speaking the same accent (both countries are Arabian) by the way and to clarify more I'm really convinced with the way that I cover my hair and the way that I wear, I do ask myself if it's right do I need to change the way I dress, but until this point of my life I'm kind of satisfied.
.
The last 15 pages got me so bad I really can’t tell you how much I could relate to her, I mean all Muslim girls could relate to Sohane’s story. I always have this idea in my mind that if I went to a different country with people their are not Muslims/ not Arabs of course/ and women are not wearing Hijab how I will try to represent myself? without killing my true identity?
.
I do have a lot to say about this piece I really thank Sarn that she gave herself the opportunity as a French writer to talk about such a very sensitive idea which she inspired from a real story. I wish if every woman from another culture/ religion/ nationality gives herself a chance to put herself in Sohane & Djelila’s position and sees how things will change for her.
December 2, 2014
I'm having mixed thoughts on this one, so I'm going to do a Pros and Cons list before summing up my overall rating:
PROS
* Interesting idea.
* Persuades discussion concerning freedom.
* Gives a good look at a different perspective (Non-White, Muslim POV).
* Based on true events.
* Intriguing relationship between two sisters.
* Nice character development for the sisters individually.
CONS
* Writing style did not appeal to me.
* At times the main character really got on my nerves.
* Plot seemed a little all over the place.
* Story moved slow in some areas, too fast in others.
* Book shorter than I would have liked.
* Not much character development outside the two sisters.
Overall, I just found this one to be "okay" though it is a good starting point concerning discussions on whether or not people should be allowed to express themselves, even when it is considered against the law. The love-hate relationship with the sisters was interesting but didn't affect me nearly as much as I would have thought. I did like how Sohane came to her conclusion in the end.
Probably not one I would re-read, but would recommend for a younger reader interested in learning about what it is like to be a Muslim girl in France or reading about a conflicted sister story.
PROS
* Interesting idea.
* Persuades discussion concerning freedom.
* Gives a good look at a different perspective (Non-White, Muslim POV).
* Based on true events.
* Intriguing relationship between two sisters.
* Nice character development for the sisters individually.
CONS
* Writing style did not appeal to me.
* At times the main character really got on my nerves.
* Plot seemed a little all over the place.
* Story moved slow in some areas, too fast in others.
* Book shorter than I would have liked.
* Not much character development outside the two sisters.
Overall, I just found this one to be "okay" though it is a good starting point concerning discussions on whether or not people should be allowed to express themselves, even when it is considered against the law. The love-hate relationship with the sisters was interesting but didn't affect me nearly as much as I would have thought. I did like how Sohane came to her conclusion in the end.
Probably not one I would re-read, but would recommend for a younger reader interested in learning about what it is like to be a Muslim girl in France or reading about a conflicted sister story.
May 17, 2016
This was a really good novel for how short it is. At 146 pages, it really packs a punch.
I would not recommend this book to people who need extensive character and setting development (I wasn't aware that the setting was France until they spoke about being French). The plot moves very quickly and can sometimes feel a little rushed because the chapters are short, and they switch from past to present each chapter. For example, you are introduced to the characters, Sohane and Djelila, and then the next chapter informs you that the younger sister, Djelila, is dead. What really captures your attention is that you don't know how she dies until the last few chapters. Another thing that could be confusing was the way Sohane narrated as if telling a story to the reader, but sometimes switched and used "you," referring to Djelila, not the reader.
Other than the aforementioned, the book was basically flawless. It very accurately portrayed rivalry among sisters from the perspective of an older sister. And this novel made brilliant points about feminism, exclusivity, and religious freedom. It could not be more relevant to our current events.
I would not recommend this book to people who need extensive character and setting development (I wasn't aware that the setting was France until they spoke about being French). The plot moves very quickly and can sometimes feel a little rushed because the chapters are short, and they switch from past to present each chapter. For example, you are introduced to the characters, Sohane and Djelila, and then the next chapter informs you that the younger sister, Djelila, is dead. What really captures your attention is that you don't know how she dies until the last few chapters. Another thing that could be confusing was the way Sohane narrated as if telling a story to the reader, but sometimes switched and used "you," referring to Djelila, not the reader.
Other than the aforementioned, the book was basically flawless. It very accurately portrayed rivalry among sisters from the perspective of an older sister. And this novel made brilliant points about feminism, exclusivity, and religious freedom. It could not be more relevant to our current events.
June 17, 2018
I expected this to be so much more?
August 26, 2014
Sometimes a book comes along that punches you in the gut. This is one of those books. I LOVE I HATE I MISS MY SISTER by French author Amélie Sarn has recently been translated into American English so that all of us on this side of the Atlantic can feel that gut punch. Believe me, this is something you want.
Skipping back and forth in time, this novel follows Sohane, the "good girl" to her younger sister Djelila's "wild child." While Djelila is taunted by neighborhood kids for not dressing modestly enough -- tight jeans, short sweaters, a blonde streak in her hair -- Sohane has recently decided to wear a hijab to school, even though it's against the law in France to wear headscarves -- or any overt religious symbols -- in public schools. Sohane makes good grades, keeps to herself. Djelila plays basketball and has a crush on a boy and has popular girl friends. And while sometimes Sohane feels a sense of what can only be described as schadenfreude when her sister has to hear taunts from the wannabe gangsters in the projects, she cannot stand it when those taunts go to far. When Djelila is killed, everything Sohane thought she knew about herself, her community -- both in her neighborhood and in her school -- and her sister is tossed upside-down.
I LOVE I HATE I MISS MY SISTER is a story that is not only terrifying and intense, but also based on real events that happened in France not long ago. It's a story that shines a light on a girl from a culture that many Americans don't know very much a about, and it is a story that shines a light on a teenager who is just like many American girls -- struggling with her own identity, coping with jealousy, and juggling both social pressure and pressure from school. The voice is authentic and real and beautiful. The story is harrowing. This book is such a quick read that once you've been sucked in you'll stay sucked in until you turn the last page, with tears in your eyes. Amélie Sarn's new novel is a must-read for fans of realistic fiction that pulls no punches. I hope you find your way to it, ASAP.
Skipping back and forth in time, this novel follows Sohane, the "good girl" to her younger sister Djelila's "wild child." While Djelila is taunted by neighborhood kids for not dressing modestly enough -- tight jeans, short sweaters, a blonde streak in her hair -- Sohane has recently decided to wear a hijab to school, even though it's against the law in France to wear headscarves -- or any overt religious symbols -- in public schools. Sohane makes good grades, keeps to herself. Djelila plays basketball and has a crush on a boy and has popular girl friends. And while sometimes Sohane feels a sense of what can only be described as schadenfreude when her sister has to hear taunts from the wannabe gangsters in the projects, she cannot stand it when those taunts go to far. When Djelila is killed, everything Sohane thought she knew about herself, her community -- both in her neighborhood and in her school -- and her sister is tossed upside-down.
I LOVE I HATE I MISS MY SISTER is a story that is not only terrifying and intense, but also based on real events that happened in France not long ago. It's a story that shines a light on a girl from a culture that many Americans don't know very much a about, and it is a story that shines a light on a teenager who is just like many American girls -- struggling with her own identity, coping with jealousy, and juggling both social pressure and pressure from school. The voice is authentic and real and beautiful. The story is harrowing. This book is such a quick read that once you've been sucked in you'll stay sucked in until you turn the last page, with tears in your eyes. Amélie Sarn's new novel is a must-read for fans of realistic fiction that pulls no punches. I hope you find your way to it, ASAP.
May 17, 2018
* Major trigger warning for misogynistic violence in this book. *
Read in one sitting; it's a quick read. The writing was cheesy at times, and the center plot point of the novel was tough to stomach. But both sisters grow, apart & together, in realistic and heartwarming ways –– the characterization of the sisters really drives the story.
What I loved was the way this book subtly and cleverly drew attention to the Islamophobic double-standards around freedom, self-expression, and media coverage of tragedy in modern France (all of these are true for the US and many other European countries as well, no doubt). It was refreshing to see the hero of the story be a complex young woman who, for example, chose to dress modestly and at the same time vocally made others aware that she wasn't particularly interested in getting married. It's hard to describe –– but I've never read a novel about a Muslim woman that allowed her to have a plurality of beliefs, some of which were contradictory with one another, some of which readers might oppose, and still recognize that she is the definite hero of the story with whom we sympathize. Really smartly done.
I recommend picking it up, AND not feeling bad if you have to skim over/skip the triggering parts (this is what I did).
Read in one sitting; it's a quick read. The writing was cheesy at times, and the center plot point of the novel was tough to stomach. But both sisters grow, apart & together, in realistic and heartwarming ways –– the characterization of the sisters really drives the story.
What I loved was the way this book subtly and cleverly drew attention to the Islamophobic double-standards around freedom, self-expression, and media coverage of tragedy in modern France (all of these are true for the US and many other European countries as well, no doubt). It was refreshing to see the hero of the story be a complex young woman who, for example, chose to dress modestly and at the same time vocally made others aware that she wasn't particularly interested in getting married. It's hard to describe –– but I've never read a novel about a Muslim woman that allowed her to have a plurality of beliefs, some of which were contradictory with one another, some of which readers might oppose, and still recognize that she is the definite hero of the story with whom we sympathize. Really smartly done.
I recommend picking it up, AND not feeling bad if you have to skim over/skip the triggering parts (this is what I did).
June 29, 2015
Short but powerful. Very simplistic but even though the issues are complex the real issues really aren't so it works. Two sisters. Muslim. One prefers to follow her religion more closely than the other does. The two are good friends and inseparable at home but don't really talk to each other all that much at school. The decision of the older sister to wear a head scarf is met with threats of expulsion (this takes place in France and the law banning religious attire like head scarves has just been passed) and the younger's decision to wear form fitting clothing draws attention from the young Muslim men in their housing project and not the good kind of attention.
The author states that this isn't meant to be an tale about head scarf vs. no head scarf and she's correct in that. One of the girls has a horrible fate befall them and you're told so in the first page so the story alternates between a retroactive retelling of past events and the present. It's really the story of one sister who is finally coming to terms with the fact that her life has been horrifically altered and may be ready to deal with the larger issues at hand here. All in all, a powerful and heart wrenching read.
The author states that this isn't meant to be an tale about head scarf vs. no head scarf and she's correct in that. One of the girls has a horrible fate befall them and you're told so in the first page so the story alternates between a retroactive retelling of past events and the present. It's really the story of one sister who is finally coming to terms with the fact that her life has been horrifically altered and may be ready to deal with the larger issues at hand here. All in all, a powerful and heart wrenching read.
April 2, 2015
What should I say? Membaca ini saya merasa tertampar. Seharusnya, beginilah novel remaja Islam. Halus, mengalir, penuh konflik, dan memang beginilah realita mayoritas penduduk muslim di dunia (bukan di Indonesia).
Membaca ini membuka mata tentang bagaimana esensi Islam itu sendiri. Sebagai agama, sebagai pedoman hidup, sebagai budaya. Saya berkaca-kaca dan sesak napas membaca kisah cinta dan pergolakan dalam buku ini.
Membaca ini membuka mata tentang bagaimana esensi Islam itu sendiri. Sebagai agama, sebagai pedoman hidup, sebagai budaya. Saya berkaca-kaca dan sesak napas membaca kisah cinta dan pergolakan dalam buku ini.
June 15, 2015
I did not like this book. This book focused on a Muslim family in France who had two daughters, one who embraced French culture and one who embraced Muslim culture. This book should be offensive to all. Muslims may be offended that a girl could act like one of the girls in the book, and non-Muslims should be offended that . This book is not fun reading and really should have a place in older discussion not in elementary or middle school. It is difficult reading which can leave the reader enraged and depressed.
The question that this book doesn’t answer is how the west can be respectful of a culture that The barbarism covered in this book and the hopelessness of those caught between two cultures changes the reader and is too raw for school use. This book covers a fearful reality that sits hidden in plain sight and drives people apart. I wish I hadn’t read it. It has scarred me and I now have more work to overcome fear of a different culture and stay respectful of a religion that creates the actions in this book.
The question that this book doesn’t answer is how the west can be respectful of a culture that The barbarism covered in this book and the hopelessness of those caught between two cultures changes the reader and is too raw for school use. This book covers a fearful reality that sits hidden in plain sight and drives people apart. I wish I hadn’t read it. It has scarred me and I now have more work to overcome fear of a different culture and stay respectful of a religion that creates the actions in this book.
Read
February 14, 2017Well, wow. I wasn't sure what to expect from this one, but it hit me hard.
I find it hard to critique translations, because I don't know what lapses in writing quality or uses of language are the translator's versus the author's. Having read only a couple contemporary(ish) French novels in translation (off the top of my head I can think of Bonjour Tristesse and Breathe), the writing style seemed like how I remember the others - that is, spare and also with a lot of tonal things that I think Americans would consider more appropriate in a book for younger readers, like "How interesting it was that blah blah!" with exclamation points and the like. My first instinct was to think it juvenile, but I think that's just a cultural thing, not actually a juvenile thing. This book is one of those ones that's deceptively simple and looks like it will be easy and light, but it's so not.
more--> http://t.co/27Fl1NVwPg
I find it hard to critique translations, because I don't know what lapses in writing quality or uses of language are the translator's versus the author's. Having read only a couple contemporary(ish) French novels in translation (off the top of my head I can think of Bonjour Tristesse and Breathe), the writing style seemed like how I remember the others - that is, spare and also with a lot of tonal things that I think Americans would consider more appropriate in a book for younger readers, like "How interesting it was that blah blah!" with exclamation points and the like. My first instinct was to think it juvenile, but I think that's just a cultural thing, not actually a juvenile thing. This book is one of those ones that's deceptively simple and looks like it will be easy and light, but it's so not.
more--> http://t.co/27Fl1NVwPg
March 15, 2015
Detailing the story of two sisters, told from the older sister's point of view. Djelia and Sohane are in a Muslim family, born in France but with ancestral roots in Algeria. Djelia is less interested in religion and its restrictions, where Sohane is exploring her religious expression by wearing a head scarf, which is against the rules of her school and causes her to begin correspondence coarses.
The book is short, beautiful and tragic. Throughout, Sohane is missing her sister, wracked with guilt over not standing up for her when she could have. Each chapter is also short and gives a window into daily life for people living in the French projects and the children of immigrants. It also gives insight into the struggle for children trying to find their own identities in a split world of life in French society and religion at home.
The book is short, beautiful and tragic. Throughout, Sohane is missing her sister, wracked with guilt over not standing up for her when she could have. Each chapter is also short and gives a window into daily life for people living in the French projects and the children of immigrants. It also gives insight into the struggle for children trying to find their own identities in a split world of life in French society and religion at home.
October 15, 2014
I'd give this one 4.5 stars.
Lovely, sad story. I loved the contrast of Sohane and Djelila - one sister banned from school for wearing a headscarf (thus making her TOO religious), and one tormented and attacked by boys in her neighborhood for wearing tight clothes, flirting with boys, etc. (not religious enough). This book really invites the reader to consider women's rights, from both a religious cultural and secular state perspective.
But more than that, it's just about two sisters who love each other very much, though they are very different in their beliefs and personalities. Sohane and Djelila make decisions that annoy each other, but their tender relationship was the beauty of the book.
Lovely, sad story. I loved the contrast of Sohane and Djelila - one sister banned from school for wearing a headscarf (thus making her TOO religious), and one tormented and attacked by boys in her neighborhood for wearing tight clothes, flirting with boys, etc. (not religious enough). This book really invites the reader to consider women's rights, from both a religious cultural and secular state perspective.
But more than that, it's just about two sisters who love each other very much, though they are very different in their beliefs and personalities. Sohane and Djelila make decisions that annoy each other, but their tender relationship was the beauty of the book.
December 24, 2015
This book was inspired by the murder of Sohane Benziane. I didn't know that going in, and instead I learned about it in the book's acknowledgements. It didn't sit well with me that the book's protagonist, who was at times pretty unlikeable, was also named Sohane. I liked that she was open with the dark and often cruel thoughts that her jealousy provoked, though found her to be stubborn in her beliefs. She was clearly intelligent, and with such big ideas being thrown around, I wished that she was open to more nuanced discussions with her sister. I did feel moved by their relationship and by the ending. This is a tiny book and I wanted much more from it on the topics of feminism, freedom, religion, sexism, and sisterhood.
January 31, 2015
Gonna start now but just the back of the book... This is THE EXACT SISTER relationship. I like that there's what seems to be a realistic approach and story to it. And the rest of the story line about hijab... CANT WAIT TO START THIS BOOK after i finish typing this.
Done- true sister relationship as was promised, i liked that it was so concise and showed the way sisters are directly. Sad sad story although not depressing but very aggravating. Nice to see and have a book that shows islamic side of this thing that's actually HAPPENING in real life, it's not a work of fiction, and to realize how silly the rules are and not true to "freedom".
A good read
Done- true sister relationship as was promised, i liked that it was so concise and showed the way sisters are directly. Sad sad story although not depressing but very aggravating. Nice to see and have a book that shows islamic side of this thing that's actually HAPPENING in real life, it's not a work of fiction, and to realize how silly the rules are and not true to "freedom".
A good read
September 12, 2015
I picked up this book based on a recommendation. It's a YA novella about two sisters who express themselves in ways that are odds with their faith and/or society and the tragic consequences of their choices. I think this is a fine read for young people especially for those looking to read about a culture outside their own. Keep in mind this could be a tough read for some younger readers.
Read
November 27, 2018An important read. I struggled to fully connect with the characters and at 150 pages, wish it had been longer as I felt it mainly focused on the past and so the ending was rushed. I didn't know this story was actually based on fact and only discovered this reading the acknowledgements, which makes it all the more heartbreaking.
May 6, 2015
I thought this was a really interesting cultural read (focused on Algerian immigrant community in France) but never really connected with the story ... since the whole plot was kind of laid out from the first page everything felt really predetermined. Still really glad I read it.
May 6, 2015
"Two sisters close in age, sharing a bedroom and sometimes their clothes. Two sisters, two paths, headscarf (hijab) versus tight jeans, prayers vs. volleyball. Two sisters—but one tragedy that destroys their family. Based on the true story of a hate crime in France."
June 24, 2015
Sad. Beautiful. Moving. Teen sisters dealing with opposite feelings about their family's culture and religion. It's leaving me feeling a bit heartbroken and drained but still thinking about the connections between the characters' struggles and what's happening in our society today.
February 26, 2015
Quick read with thoughtful insights on freedom and oppression, sisterly love and guilt.
November 27, 2014
I cant believe how obvious the plot is or the simplicity of the narration
every element evolved in the writing is just mocked by publishing this book
every element evolved in the writing is just mocked by publishing this book
Read
April 10, 2015very quick read-an hour or two is all you need to finish! but it was intriguing and eye opening
Read
August 2, 2021Based on actual events that it kinda broke me. Short but powerful. Read this in one sitting. Honestly the writing and plot were mediocre and very easy to follow but the issues were perfectly portrayed and something that most of us can relate too.
We follows a story of two sisters, born as a Muslims living in French. They're what we called opposite attracts. Sohane is the religious one I must say, while Dejilia is the rebellious type. As we've already know the French laws can be a bit oppressive regarding the hijabs issue. Living in a country with the majority practicing Islam this is not an issue to most of us. But reading this from Sohane POV I was furious. It's absurd how a hijab/head scarf can cause such chaos and dramatic chain of events. Bloody ridiculous.
Then there's Dejilia, the issue here is something you can relate to the Taliban. Forcing a women, punishing them in the name of religion and I was enraged on the tragic ending. It's about religion, choices, sisterhood, family, friends, the oppressive, the liberals and humanity.
I'm not really sure with how Sohane came to her conclusion in the end. I think the author done a really great job at writing this based on research/inspiration and not her actual experiences. Normalize not rating a book when one cannot decide. I'm having mixed feelings about this one so i'm not gonna rate this too.
We follows a story of two sisters, born as a Muslims living in French. They're what we called opposite attracts. Sohane is the religious one I must say, while Dejilia is the rebellious type. As we've already know the French laws can be a bit oppressive regarding the hijabs issue. Living in a country with the majority practicing Islam this is not an issue to most of us. But reading this from Sohane POV I was furious. It's absurd how a hijab/head scarf can cause such chaos and dramatic chain of events. Bloody ridiculous.
Then there's Dejilia, the issue here is something you can relate to the Taliban. Forcing a women, punishing them in the name of religion and I was enraged on the tragic ending. It's about religion, choices, sisterhood, family, friends, the oppressive, the liberals and humanity.
I'm not really sure with how Sohane came to her conclusion in the end. I think the author done a really great job at writing this based on research/inspiration and not her actual experiences. Normalize not rating a book when one cannot decide. I'm having mixed feelings about this one so i'm not gonna rate this too.
November 1, 2012
Le contenu
Deux sœurs musulmanes en France. Une sœur est voilée, l’autre pas. Les deux veulent être respectées et libres. Et pour obtenir le même but, elles choisissent un chemin totalement différent.
Si vous voulez savoir pourquoi les deux sœurs, qui ont les mêmes intérêts, sont obligées de se décider pour ou contre la voile et pourquoi pour une sœur cette décision termine avec la mort, n’hésitez pas à lire ce livre. Dans 186 pages, qui se subdivisent en 23 chapitres, vous allez connaître deux filles, qui sont en quête de leur identité pour être soi-même.
C’est l’histoire des deux sœurs, Djelila et Sohane, qui habitent en France, mais qui sont d’origine algérienne. Djelila, 16 ans, va au lycée avec Sohane qui est un an plus âgée qu’elle. Pour les deux sœurs la puberté n’est pas facile. À l’école les amies ne savent pas que Sohane et Djelila sont sœurs. C’était Djelila qui a commencé à prendre la distance. Djelila joue au basket et veut vivre comme toutes les filles de son âge, même si pour les parents la religion est très importante. Mais aussi pour Sohane ce n’est pas facile de vivre avec une personnalité multiple – une pour les parents, une pour le quartier et une troisième pour l’école.
Djelila, qui est la fille provocante de la famille, commence à avoir des problèmes avec Majid et sa bande. Majid est un garçon du quartier. À son avis Djelila fait honte à sa religion et à sa famille et c’est pour ça qu’il veut changer le comportement d’elle en lui faisant peur. Sohane peut comprendre l’avis de Majid, mais en même temps Djelila est sa petite sœur qui faut protéger. Pour attirer l’attention elle décide de porter le foulard.
Mais porter le foulard ne veut pas dire que Djelila va changer son comportement provocateur et que les conflits avec Majid s’arrêtent. Il continue à l’insulter et la poursuivre.
Comme dans le lycée c’est interdit de porter un voile, Sohane ne peut plus aller à l’école et ne voit pas que les conflits avec Majid ne cessent pas. Après une grande dispute entre les sœurs, Djelila ne parle plus à sa grande sœur. Il arrive le matin ou Djelila part au lycée sans dire un mot à Sohane. Toute la journée les pensées de Sohane sont chez Djelila sans savoir qu’elle ne va plus jamais la revoir – vivante. Dans les journaux on dit : « Une jeune fille de seize ans est morte hier brûlée vive dans la cave d’une cité. Son meurtrier, qui la connaissait et vivait à quelques pas de chez elle, a été arrêté sans opposer aucune résistance. »
La recommandation
À mon avis, le livre est très intéressant et peut être traité dans une école secondaire. Vignaud (2002) a formulé quatre critères de base (thématique, niveau linguistique, l’interculturel, les potentialités) qui aide à choisir un texte pour l’école. Avec les quatre critères j’essaie de justifier la recommandation de ce livre pour le traiter avec les élèves.
La thématique doit être intéressante pour les élèves. Ce livre ne traite pas un sujet qui est loin pour les élèves. Dans notre société il y a beaucoup d’immigrés de religion musulmane et dans la vie quotidienne on voit des femmes qui portent le voile. Je crois que chacun s’est déjà demandé pourquoi ces femmes le portent. Le livre ne juge pas, il montre jusque les pensées de deux jeunes femmes qui n’ont pas une vie simple. Il faut s’imaginer de vivre dans un pays qui a une culture différente. Ça peut être un thème relevant pour les élèves comme Topf (2009) dit dans son article. Elle mentionne aussi que le potentiel de s’identifier avec les personnages est très important. Sohane et Djelila ont à peu près le même âge comme les élèves dans une école secondaire.
En lisant, les élèves développent leurs compétences interculturelles. Morant (2007, p.23) dit que la littérature de jeunesse peut être utilisé pour « aider l’apprenant à comprendre et à participer au monde qui l’entoure ».
Le niveau linguistique de ce livre est haut. Tandis que les phrases et les chapitres sont courts qui favorisent la lecture, le vocabulaire et la complexité du texte compliquent la compréhension. C’est donc nécessaire d’introduire le livre, d’activer la pré-connaissance des élèves pour soutenir la compréhension. (Morant, 2007, p. 22)
Comme déjà évoqué, l’aspect interculturel dans le livre est donné. Et au niveau de potentialités le livre se qualifie. Une possibilité serait l’analyse des personnages par exemple en écrivant un extrait de journal intime ou en faisant un jeu de rôle. D’autres possibilités pour travailler sur le livre peuvent être trouvées dans l’article de Vignaud (2002).
Le professeur qui va lire le livre dans une classe est obligé de vraiment bien l’introduire, car l’histoire et la thématique sont très complexes. Si on regarde le titre du livre on pense que l’histoire est racontée par Djelila et qu’elle est le personnage principal. Mais le narrateur-je est Sohane. C’est important de thématiser cela avec les élèves, car sinon les dialogues dans le livre brouillent les idées du lecteur.
L’histoire n’est pas chronologique. La compréhension du livre pour les élèves n’est pas facile. Comme lecteur j’apprends par exemple déjà dans le chapitre 12 que Djelila va mourir. Mais cette stratégie, qui essaie d’augmenter la tension, est importante. Le lecteur veut continuer à lire pour connaitre la suite. Et pendant tout le livre le lecteur a l’impression que la mort de Djelila est la faute de Sohane. Ça aussi est un aspecte qui peut plaire aux lecteurs. Après avoir terminé de lire le livre avec les élèves, je conseille de relire le début. En effet si on a fait attention, la mort de Djelila est déjà indiquée au début du livre. Le livre contient beaucoup d’aspect qui peuvent être traité avec les élèves.
En plus et pour terminer, le livre est vraiment touchant parce que Sohane décrit, dans une manière passionnante, très bien ses idées, ses pensées et ses sentiments. Je m’imagine que grâce à ça, le livre peut garantir le plaisir de lire.
Deux sœurs musulmanes en France. Une sœur est voilée, l’autre pas. Les deux veulent être respectées et libres. Et pour obtenir le même but, elles choisissent un chemin totalement différent.
Si vous voulez savoir pourquoi les deux sœurs, qui ont les mêmes intérêts, sont obligées de se décider pour ou contre la voile et pourquoi pour une sœur cette décision termine avec la mort, n’hésitez pas à lire ce livre. Dans 186 pages, qui se subdivisent en 23 chapitres, vous allez connaître deux filles, qui sont en quête de leur identité pour être soi-même.
C’est l’histoire des deux sœurs, Djelila et Sohane, qui habitent en France, mais qui sont d’origine algérienne. Djelila, 16 ans, va au lycée avec Sohane qui est un an plus âgée qu’elle. Pour les deux sœurs la puberté n’est pas facile. À l’école les amies ne savent pas que Sohane et Djelila sont sœurs. C’était Djelila qui a commencé à prendre la distance. Djelila joue au basket et veut vivre comme toutes les filles de son âge, même si pour les parents la religion est très importante. Mais aussi pour Sohane ce n’est pas facile de vivre avec une personnalité multiple – une pour les parents, une pour le quartier et une troisième pour l’école.
Djelila, qui est la fille provocante de la famille, commence à avoir des problèmes avec Majid et sa bande. Majid est un garçon du quartier. À son avis Djelila fait honte à sa religion et à sa famille et c’est pour ça qu’il veut changer le comportement d’elle en lui faisant peur. Sohane peut comprendre l’avis de Majid, mais en même temps Djelila est sa petite sœur qui faut protéger. Pour attirer l’attention elle décide de porter le foulard.
Mais porter le foulard ne veut pas dire que Djelila va changer son comportement provocateur et que les conflits avec Majid s’arrêtent. Il continue à l’insulter et la poursuivre.
Comme dans le lycée c’est interdit de porter un voile, Sohane ne peut plus aller à l’école et ne voit pas que les conflits avec Majid ne cessent pas. Après une grande dispute entre les sœurs, Djelila ne parle plus à sa grande sœur. Il arrive le matin ou Djelila part au lycée sans dire un mot à Sohane. Toute la journée les pensées de Sohane sont chez Djelila sans savoir qu’elle ne va plus jamais la revoir – vivante. Dans les journaux on dit : « Une jeune fille de seize ans est morte hier brûlée vive dans la cave d’une cité. Son meurtrier, qui la connaissait et vivait à quelques pas de chez elle, a été arrêté sans opposer aucune résistance. »
La recommandation
À mon avis, le livre est très intéressant et peut être traité dans une école secondaire. Vignaud (2002) a formulé quatre critères de base (thématique, niveau linguistique, l’interculturel, les potentialités) qui aide à choisir un texte pour l’école. Avec les quatre critères j’essaie de justifier la recommandation de ce livre pour le traiter avec les élèves.
La thématique doit être intéressante pour les élèves. Ce livre ne traite pas un sujet qui est loin pour les élèves. Dans notre société il y a beaucoup d’immigrés de religion musulmane et dans la vie quotidienne on voit des femmes qui portent le voile. Je crois que chacun s’est déjà demandé pourquoi ces femmes le portent. Le livre ne juge pas, il montre jusque les pensées de deux jeunes femmes qui n’ont pas une vie simple. Il faut s’imaginer de vivre dans un pays qui a une culture différente. Ça peut être un thème relevant pour les élèves comme Topf (2009) dit dans son article. Elle mentionne aussi que le potentiel de s’identifier avec les personnages est très important. Sohane et Djelila ont à peu près le même âge comme les élèves dans une école secondaire.
En lisant, les élèves développent leurs compétences interculturelles. Morant (2007, p.23) dit que la littérature de jeunesse peut être utilisé pour « aider l’apprenant à comprendre et à participer au monde qui l’entoure ».
Le niveau linguistique de ce livre est haut. Tandis que les phrases et les chapitres sont courts qui favorisent la lecture, le vocabulaire et la complexité du texte compliquent la compréhension. C’est donc nécessaire d’introduire le livre, d’activer la pré-connaissance des élèves pour soutenir la compréhension. (Morant, 2007, p. 22)
Comme déjà évoqué, l’aspect interculturel dans le livre est donné. Et au niveau de potentialités le livre se qualifie. Une possibilité serait l’analyse des personnages par exemple en écrivant un extrait de journal intime ou en faisant un jeu de rôle. D’autres possibilités pour travailler sur le livre peuvent être trouvées dans l’article de Vignaud (2002).
Le professeur qui va lire le livre dans une classe est obligé de vraiment bien l’introduire, car l’histoire et la thématique sont très complexes. Si on regarde le titre du livre on pense que l’histoire est racontée par Djelila et qu’elle est le personnage principal. Mais le narrateur-je est Sohane. C’est important de thématiser cela avec les élèves, car sinon les dialogues dans le livre brouillent les idées du lecteur.
L’histoire n’est pas chronologique. La compréhension du livre pour les élèves n’est pas facile. Comme lecteur j’apprends par exemple déjà dans le chapitre 12 que Djelila va mourir. Mais cette stratégie, qui essaie d’augmenter la tension, est importante. Le lecteur veut continuer à lire pour connaitre la suite. Et pendant tout le livre le lecteur a l’impression que la mort de Djelila est la faute de Sohane. Ça aussi est un aspecte qui peut plaire aux lecteurs. Après avoir terminé de lire le livre avec les élèves, je conseille de relire le début. En effet si on a fait attention, la mort de Djelila est déjà indiquée au début du livre. Le livre contient beaucoup d’aspect qui peuvent être traité avec les élèves.
En plus et pour terminer, le livre est vraiment touchant parce que Sohane décrit, dans une manière passionnante, très bien ses idées, ses pensées et ses sentiments. Je m’imagine que grâce à ça, le livre peut garantir le plaisir de lire.
April 20, 2023
Great topic. Wrong author.
The set up of two sisters grappling with what it means to be a Muslim woman in France could’ve been amaaaaazing.
But the outsider perspective of the author was just so glaring, relying on surface level stereotypes and my greatest personal narrative pet peeve of all time— randomly jumping into second person.
The set up of two sisters grappling with what it means to be a Muslim woman in France could’ve been amaaaaazing.
But the outsider perspective of the author was just so glaring, relying on surface level stereotypes and my greatest personal narrative pet peeve of all time— randomly jumping into second person.
April 16, 2023
I hated it. The writing feels simple and amateur. The characters motives don’t feel genuine. The emotions don’t hit when they are supposed to. Feels simple and not in a good way.
August 1, 2015
Review first published on http://reading-is-dreaming-with-open-...
"I don't want to live in fear. I don't want my choices to be dictated by fear. I don't want to be what others have decided I should be. I want to be myself. Do you understand, Sohane?"
This book just left me feeling speechless. On reading the synopsis I expected a typical conflicted-sister relationship but nothing could have prepared me for the intensity the author carried throughout the book with perfect ease. It was chilling. It was unbelievable. Yet it was based on a TRUE STORY. Well, damn.
Sohane is a typical eighteen-year-old. She loves no one as much as she loves her care-free, gorgeous little sister Djelila- and she hates no one as much. Even though they both grew up together, Sohane can't help but feel Djelila turning into someone different and it frustrates her that she can't stop this.
"I just want to be me. I don't want to be ashamed of being Muslim and of practicing my religion. I'd like people to accept that. I don't intend to harm anyone."
While Sohane accepts being Muslim, along with all that it entails- including the head cover, her sister wants to be free of this. All Djelila wants is to live life the way she wants. But this is easier said than done because neighborhood kids who had taken it upon themselves to be the "religious police" start to harass her for not dressing modestly enough.
Sohane (understandably) feels a bit of Schadenfreude when she first gets to know this, but pretty soon understands the extent to which this problem has grown when the wannabe gangsters attempt to physically harm Djelila. What follows next is the journey of each girl towards self-discovery, and the price they have to pay for being true to themselves.
"We dreamt of a life that we would build, a life in which no one would step on our feet, in which we would walk with our heads raised. The world had better watch out!"
Things I liked:
-The author's portrayal of the relationship between two sisters who differ greatly in their personality and beliefs and nevertheless love each other very much.
-The writing style, alternating between the past and present. While I'm sure some may find it annoying, but I felt it suited the story very well indeed.
-The story idea gives the reader something to think about. The fact that this truly happened in France is terrifyingly shocking.
-Character development of both Sohane and Djelila. I personally found myself being able to relate to both the sisters very much.
-The raw emotions, the heart-breaking narration- all done to utmost perfection in Sohane's point of view.
-A deep insight into the lives of children living life trying to find their identity in a world where they are judged by their religious beliefs (or lack thereof).
Things I disliked? Well, the book was too short for my liking!! But honestly, even that is understandable considering the nature of the plot. The author could have perhaps elaborated on the religious issues- but it definitely wouldn't have struck a chord with a majority of the audience.
So, all things considered, this was gem of a book, conveying a harrowing and intense story infused with some really powerful moments.
"Most journalists talk about what they do not know, about matters they don’t take the trouble to understand. They adopt the clichés that suit them—take one aspect of an issue until it becomes a caricature. To them, being a Muslim man means wanting to enslave women, to deny them any rights. I can’t say that this isn’t reality. But it’s only one reality among many—the one that is best known since it’s the one that gets the most media coverage. All I need is to be in sync with my beliefs and religion, even if that seems ridiculous to other girls my age. It's true that I've never gone out with a boy. So what? I have lots of other things to think about for now. Besides, love seems too important to last only three days or even two months. Or does being a teenager mean you have to be frivolous? Should your main interest be the color of your eye shadow, or the clothes you wear? Should whether my thong shows above my jeans be my sole concern? What a fascinating debate, right?"
A must-read for fans of realistic fiction that that punches one in the gut.
The story idea: 5/5
The realization of the story: 5/5
The characters: 5/5
The cover: 4/5
Enjoy factor: 5/5
Final Rating:5/5
"I don't want to live in fear. I don't want my choices to be dictated by fear. I don't want to be what others have decided I should be. I want to be myself. Do you understand, Sohane?"
This book just left me feeling speechless. On reading the synopsis I expected a typical conflicted-sister relationship but nothing could have prepared me for the intensity the author carried throughout the book with perfect ease. It was chilling. It was unbelievable. Yet it was based on a TRUE STORY. Well, damn.
Sohane is a typical eighteen-year-old. She loves no one as much as she loves her care-free, gorgeous little sister Djelila- and she hates no one as much. Even though they both grew up together, Sohane can't help but feel Djelila turning into someone different and it frustrates her that she can't stop this.
"I just want to be me. I don't want to be ashamed of being Muslim and of practicing my religion. I'd like people to accept that. I don't intend to harm anyone."
While Sohane accepts being Muslim, along with all that it entails- including the head cover, her sister wants to be free of this. All Djelila wants is to live life the way she wants. But this is easier said than done because neighborhood kids who had taken it upon themselves to be the "religious police" start to harass her for not dressing modestly enough.
Sohane (understandably) feels a bit of Schadenfreude when she first gets to know this, but pretty soon understands the extent to which this problem has grown when the wannabe gangsters attempt to physically harm Djelila. What follows next is the journey of each girl towards self-discovery, and the price they have to pay for being true to themselves.
"We dreamt of a life that we would build, a life in which no one would step on our feet, in which we would walk with our heads raised. The world had better watch out!"
Things I liked:
-The author's portrayal of the relationship between two sisters who differ greatly in their personality and beliefs and nevertheless love each other very much.
-The writing style, alternating between the past and present. While I'm sure some may find it annoying, but I felt it suited the story very well indeed.
-The story idea gives the reader something to think about. The fact that this truly happened in France is terrifyingly shocking.
-Character development of both Sohane and Djelila. I personally found myself being able to relate to both the sisters very much.
-The raw emotions, the heart-breaking narration- all done to utmost perfection in Sohane's point of view.
-A deep insight into the lives of children living life trying to find their identity in a world where they are judged by their religious beliefs (or lack thereof).
Things I disliked? Well, the book was too short for my liking!! But honestly, even that is understandable considering the nature of the plot. The author could have perhaps elaborated on the religious issues- but it definitely wouldn't have struck a chord with a majority of the audience.
So, all things considered, this was gem of a book, conveying a harrowing and intense story infused with some really powerful moments.
"Most journalists talk about what they do not know, about matters they don’t take the trouble to understand. They adopt the clichés that suit them—take one aspect of an issue until it becomes a caricature. To them, being a Muslim man means wanting to enslave women, to deny them any rights. I can’t say that this isn’t reality. But it’s only one reality among many—the one that is best known since it’s the one that gets the most media coverage. All I need is to be in sync with my beliefs and religion, even if that seems ridiculous to other girls my age. It's true that I've never gone out with a boy. So what? I have lots of other things to think about for now. Besides, love seems too important to last only three days or even two months. Or does being a teenager mean you have to be frivolous? Should your main interest be the color of your eye shadow, or the clothes you wear? Should whether my thong shows above my jeans be my sole concern? What a fascinating debate, right?"
A must-read for fans of realistic fiction that that punches one in the gut.
The story idea: 5/5
The realization of the story: 5/5
The characters: 5/5
The cover: 4/5
Enjoy factor: 5/5
Final Rating:5/5
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