Photo Credit: Traveler’s Tales

In this compilation of true travel stories edited by Nesreen Khashan and Jim Bowman, you will receive a well rounded and accurate peek into Middle Eastern culture from the Western perspective.

Whether you are exposed to the possibly unconsidered perks of arranged marriages in The Promise Coffee, a young archeology student’s love affair with Lebanon in Key to the City, or the hilarity of learning a language on the street in Shlonak, this book will give you an honest take on regional travel. Other essays that caught my attention? Confessions of a Water Pipe Smoker, and Bread.

As someone who has lived and traveled in this region extensively, I can definitely vouch for the authentic feel the various essays provide. I also enjoyed the geographical diversity represented in this title, with stories from Yemen, Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Jordan and Kuwait. An excellent title for lovers of Middle East culture and travel, as well as for anyone considering a trip to the region.

In this gutsy journey of self discovery, Maliha Masood explores her roots, her faith and her inner self. Written from the perspective of a Muslim woman learning to walk in two worlds, this is an emotional and for the most part fun-filled peek at life on the road for a woman in the Middle East.

Having appreciated and enjoyed the culture of this region for sometime now, let me just say . . . it’s about time. About time to give the culture and people a fair shake. About time to provide an honest, in depth look at the inside issues on the street. And about time that it was provided by someone with some inside knowledge, rather than by the usual commentators who only think they know what it’s all about. Bravo, Maliha! And thank you.

Photo Credit: Avalon