Drawing in the Dust by Zoe Klein

An archaeologist on a dig in Israel is approached by an Arab couple and asked to come to their home to see their ghosts. The archaeologist makes a surprising discovery that appears to virally spread a world wide message of love.

I was particularly taken by the interplay of the various factions in Israel. The conflict just isn’t as clear cut as the media often portrays. Klein shows disparate groups showing surprising concern for both each other and a possible unifying artifact. The image of the mindless, blood thirsty suicide bomber is contrasted with the compassion of Arab friendships. The marriage of a Israeli girl and an Arab boy underlines the fact that the people in the region are more similar than dissimilar. The pettiness of bureaucracy and the willingness of a single individual to defy convention and odds to pursue a perceived righteous calling was inspiring. There were times I found my self drifting and others where I found myself riveted to the book. Klein did an excellent job in defining Page Brookstone, her goals, fears and aspirations. The painting of a country that is confused about it’s own identity and in constant turmoil was masterful.

I recommend the book, it isn’t a quick, easy read, you will want to take some time and ponder what you are reading.

Body of work of Zoe Klein

Review: http://themysterygazette.blogspot.com/2009/05/drawing-in-dust-zoe-klein.html


Web site: http://www.zoeklein.com/