Roundabout of Death

"Roundabout of Death" is a powerful and beautiful Syrian novel set in Aleppo during the early days of the civil war. It offers a powerful witness to the violence that obliterated the ancient city's rich layers of history, its neighborhoods, and medieval and Ottoman landmarks.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A captivating and poignant Syrian novel, set in the early days of the civil war that erupted after the Arab Spring, paints a vivid portrait of the city of Aleppo. Beautifully written, this masterpiece by one of the most talented Syrian novelists of his generation brings the devastating consequences of the conflict to a wider audience.

The novel follows the life of Jumaa, a schoolteacher who witnesses the gradual disintegration of his beloved hometown. Through a mixture of first and third-person narration, the reader experiences the heart-wrenching destruction of entire neighborhoods, the seemingly random use of barrel bombs, the bewildering array of militias and government security forces loyal to Assad, and the arbitrary cruelties inflicted upon the people.

Roundabout of Death serves as a powerful testament to the violence that erased Aleppo's rich historical layers, its vibrant neighborhoods, and its medieval and Ottoman landmarks. The war tore apart the diverse communities that once lived in the city, leaving it in ruins.

Aleppo, known for its multicultural heritage, was home to Arabs, Armenians, Kurds, Christians, and other sects. The war shattered these communities, leaving a trail of destruction and despair. The novel vividly portrays the struggles and hardships faced by the people as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the city, seeking safety and a way forward.

Beautifully written and deeply emotional, Roundabout of Death offers a poignant reflection on the human cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the Syrian conflict and the devastating impact it has had on the lives of its people.

Weight: 130g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801107280