Arab Boy Delivered: A Palestinian-American Comes of Age

Michael Haddad, a teenage son of Palestinian immigrants, grows up in a family's neighborhood grocery store in New York City during the tumultuous sixties. He faces racism, falls in love, and is shaped by the conflicts of hate, acts of kindness, and his sexual awakening. He experiences the deaths of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, and his girlfriend opens his eyes to the ongoing struggle to test national ideals against America's growing diversity. However, a personal tragedy forces him to learn to get past his fears, come to terms with his heritage, and set himself free.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2024
Publisher: Cune Press,US

Michael Haddad, the teenage son of Palestinian immigrants, embarks on his journey of self-discovery amidst the tumultuous sixties in the vibrant neighborhood grocery store owned by his family in New York City. In 1967, at the tender age of 17, Michael takes on the role of a grocery delivery boy, navigating the working-class streets and entering the homes and lives of his customers. He faces the harsh reality of racist bullies, but also falls deeply in love with a radical college coed who introduces him to the world of sex, love, and protest. As he mourns the loss of his mother, who lost her only son in the Vietnam War, Michael finds solace in the embrace of the first black couple who move into the neighborhood. Their kindness and acceptance shape him, helping him navigate the conflicts of hate, acts of kindness, and his own sexual awakening.

Michael's life is deeply impacted by the assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr., and Bobby Kennedy, two pivotal events that shook the nation. His girlfriend, a passionate advocate for social justice, opens his eyes to the ongoing struggle to test national ideals against the growing diversity of America. However, when Michael faces a sudden personal tragedy, he is forced to confront his fears, come to terms with his heritage, and set himself free.

Through his experiences, Michael learns the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance. He realizes that his identity is not defined by the circumstances of his birth but by the choices he makes and the person he becomes. He embraces his Palestinian heritage and his American identity, striving to create a future where diversity is celebrated and unity is fostered.

In conclusion, Michael Haddad's journey of self-discovery is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love, kindness, and acceptance to shape one's destiny. His story reminds us of the importance of looking beyond our differences and embracing our shared humanity, as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of a changing world.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781951082291