Men Don't Cry

Mourad is torn between a desire for freedom and the fear of becoming an overweight bachelor. Dounia leaves home for good on her eighteenth birthday, and ten years later, Mourad's father has a stroke and makes him promise to patch things up with his estranged sister. Mourad tracks down Dounia and battles to span the gulf separating her from the rest of the family.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2021
Publisher: Cassava Republic Press

Mourad and his family reside in the vibrant city of Nice, where life is filled with warmth and charm. Mourad's retired father, with a twinkle in his eye, dedicates his days to repairing and nurturing the beautiful backyard, a sanctuary of tranquility. Meanwhile, Mourad's mother, her eyes filled with nostalgia for her natal village in North Africa, laments the loss of her roots. Among the family, Dounia, the eldest, stands tall as a fierce advocate for feminist ideals, while Mina, the youngest, blushes with embarrassment whenever a scented shower gel ad plays on television. Mourad, a young man caught between the allure of freedom and the haunting fear of becoming an overweight bachelor with salt and pepper hair, finds himself strangely torn.

On the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Dounia, determined to forge her path, leaves the familiar confines of home. She is no longer a part of the family that once embraced her. Ten years pass, and Mourad's father, weakened by a stroke, imposes a heartfelt request upon his son. He implores Mourad to mend the fractured relationship with his estranged sister, now a successful lawyer with a burning desire for politics. Assigned to a teaching position in the Parisian suburbs, Mourad embarks on a mission to reunite with Dounia. He confronts the barriers that have grown between them, determined to bridge the widening gulf that separates her from the rest of the family.

Through his unwavering determination and genuine affection, Mourad slowly but surely begins to chip away at the walls that have separated them. He listens patiently to Dounia's stories, offering support and understanding. He recognizes the pain she has endured and the challenges she has faced. With unwavering patience, he works to rebuild the trust that was once shattered.

As time passes, Mourad's efforts bear fruit. Dounia begins to see the changes in her brother, the warmth in his eyes, and the genuine care he has for her. She realizes that their bond is stronger than any distance or disagreement could ever be. Together, they embark on a journey of healing and reconciliation, forging a new bond that transcends the boundaries of their past.

In the end, Mourad and Dounia's story is a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and second chances. It reminds us that even when life throws us unexpected challenges, it is our ability to embrace change, open our hearts, and reconnect with those we care about that ultimately leads to personal growth and happiness.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 138 x 214 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911115694