Silence is a Sense

A young woman, a refugee from Syria, watches her neighbors through their windows, witnessing the failure of the Arab Spring and the trauma of her journey to Britain. After a brutal attack on the local mosque, she becomes the only witness to the truth behind the violence and must find the courage to speak out. This novel combines elements of Rear Window and Exit West, telling a powerful story of trauma and healing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

A SUNDAY TIMES STYLE RECOMMENDATION:


Tracy Chevalier's novel "Lyrical, moving, revealing" is a captivating read that delves into the lives of its characters with tenderness and insight. Nikita Lalwani's "Brilliant" portrayal of the protagonist adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a truly immersive experience. The writing is characterized by its beautiful prose and evocative descriptions, drawing the reader into the world of the characters and evoking a range of emotions.


One reviewer described the book as "a little bit Rear Window, a little bit Home Fire, a little bit Shameless," noting its blend of suspense, drama, and emotional resonance. Another reviewer praised the author's "daring and devastating" storytelling, stating that it left them feeling both challenged and deeply moved.


The novel revolves around a young woman who, as a refugee, has witnessed the devastating consequences of the Arab Spring in her homeland and been silenced by the trauma of her journey from Syria to Britain. As an outsider, a mute voyeur, she observes the lives of her neighbors through their windows, witnessing the joys, struggles, and secrets of their daily lives.


Slowly but surely, she becomes drawn into the community that surrounds her, forming connections and beginning to heal from the wounds of her past. However, her peaceful existence is shattered when a brutal attack on the local mosque takes place, leaving her as the sole witness to the truth behind the violence.


With the weight of this knowledge pressing upon her, the protagonist must confront her own demons and find the courage to speak of all she has seen. "Rear Window meets Exit West," this beautifully written novel tells the powerful story of one woman's trauma and her gradual healing. It explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the power of community in the face of adversity.


Tracy Chevalier's writing is a testament to her talent as a storyteller, and "Lyrical, moving, revealing" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates well-crafted fiction that delves into the depths of the human experience.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 186 x 230 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008346690