Rated of 5
by Sandra S. (Huntington Woods, Michigan) The Sweetness of Tears by Nafisa Haji
This book begins as a mystery for the main character as well as a mystery for the reader. The main character has a feeling of doubt that she know the answer to, that gives the book its page-turning, powerful aspect. It takes the main character Jo, and the reader to many different countries she never thought she'd visit. She'd meet people who were strangers to her, but at the same time she felt she knew them. She never questioned the fact that the life journey she was on was what she was suppose to be doing. I believe knowing the answer that Jo was looking for the reader can enjoy learning as Jo does about all of the many characters she meets and learns about that the reader does not know. The book is also about religions. The Muslim religion is explained in detail. The difference between the Shiite and Sunni religion is explained. The author uses many Middle Eastern words and includes a glossary at the back of the book for the reader. I not only found this book to be very interesting and exciting, but I also found it to be educational.
Rated of 5
by Susan R. (Julian, NC) The Sweetness of Life
I was very close to giving up on this book for the first 50 pages but I continued reading because I had really enjoyed this author's first book (The Writing on my Forehead). I made a list of all of the characters as they appeared in the book so that could connect the families. Once I did that, I couldn't put the book down. I think that this author presents a unique view on the differences of the two cultures - but then lets us see that ultimately we all strive for the same things in our lives no matter where we are from. I highly recommend this book.
Rated of 5
by Roni S. (Pittsburgh, PA) The Sweetness of Tears
I enjoyed this book and now plan to read the first book by Nafisa Hasji, “The Writing on My Forehead.” People who enjoy the authors, Thrity Umrigar and Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, will enjoy this book although these settings are Pakistan, the United States, and Iraq. One has to pay attention to the title of each chapter as the book is written in many voices. Different cultures, different religions, the Iraq war, PTSD, and the meaning of family are all explored. I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 because the author tried to cover too many themes and I found the final chapter weak.
Rated of 5
by Susan Q. (East Williston, NY) Wonderful
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A great mix how one's culture defines them. The storyline kept me interested, as well as the characters themselves. There were some moments though when I had to go back to see which character was narrating. I will definitely be recommending this book to my friends.
Rated of 5
by Nancy L. (Denver, NC) The New "Three Cups of Tea"
It's been a long time since I've read a book this good. The characters are from all over - an evangelical Christian family discovers their connection with Muslims from Pakistan and Iraq during the War on Terror. The Christian matriarch, Faith, is a woman of incredible compassion and bravery - in the world but not to her family. The world of the Muslim woman is heartbreaking. I love the meaning of the "sweetness of tears":"Tears are proof that there is love in the world. Tears are only bitter when we cry selfishly for ourselves...tears that flow from the love in your heart" for others are sweet tears - let them fall.
Rated of 5
by Mary J. (Scottsdale, AZ) Engrossing!!
Starts out rather slow but soon picks up speed. I wasn't able to put it down. Well written and full of surprises. A must read!!
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of 5
by Sandra S. (Huntington Woods, Michigan) 
of 5
by Roni S. (Pittsburgh, PA) 
