International Literature Reviews - Module One

Bibliography
Stolz, Joëlle., and Catherine Temerson. 2004. The Shadows of Ghadames. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 0385731043

Plot summary
In the late 19th century, Malika, the eleven year old daughter of a traditional Muslim mother and father, begins to wonder what life would be like beyond the rooftops of Ghadames where she will soon be confined. Once she reaches the age of twelve her life will change. These changes, which are steeped in deep Muslim tradition, begin to be questioned by Malika when a mysterious guest arrives at her home.

Critical Analysis
This book is written by an outsider from the culture depicts many of the Muslim traditions and customs. The physical attributes of the women, some having tattoos with secret meanings, and the skin color of the men in the book are described along with details of the men and women’s clothing and jewelry. Each of these details led to authentic representation of the culture.

As Malika learns more about navigating the city’s passageways in the dark, and the rituals that take place at the palm grove, she learns that she is being prepared for a new life. This new life will confine her to the rooftops of Ghadames where she will communicate with the women of the city, attend the market bazaars, and keep her ear tuned for the latest gossip, while the men of the city roam the street below and conduct business and lead a life very different than the women. Malika wishes for many more things like the ability to read and write like her brother, but this is something that is not permitted in her culture.

When the stranger is taken in to her house to be nursed back to health, she is given this opportunity. This small window of learning has opened a new level of hope for Malika. Unfortunately, we are left to wonder what becomes of her.


Awards
Winner 2005 – Mildred L. Batchelder Award Winner
Winner 2005 – ALA Notable Children’s Book

Review Excerpts

"In this novel translated from the French, the wealth of cultural detail is sometimes distracting, and the author is too obvious in her selection of a gift for Malika from her father: a telescope, to see beyond. But then Stolz's whole story, which is steeped in the syncretic Islam of Ghadames, revolves around changing visions of people and places." The Horn Book

“This quiet story is notable for the intimate picture of the traditional Muslim world that it conveys; unfortunately, not until the author's note at the end is the time period made evident. The imprecise use of language may make it difficult for readers to visualize this distant world and to understand the characters' motivations. Still, this novel would be useful in schools studying this part of the world.” School Library Journal

Connections
Readers interested in learning more about the Muslim world and its traditions might want to explore these books:
Budhos, Marina. Ask Me No Questions. ISBN 9781416903512
Ellis, Deborah. The Breadwinner. ISBN 0888994192