Muddy People: A Memoir

Discover the poignant and humorous memoir 'Muddy People: A Memoir' by Sara El Sayed, now available at Smartfox NZ. This captivating narrative chronicles the unique journey of Soos, a young girl growing up in an Egyptian Muslim family in Australia. With her family bound by strict cultural rules—like no bikinis during the scorching Queensland summer and an aversion to non-Muslim boys—Soos struggles to carve out her identity amidst the chaos. Through relatable anecdotes and heartfelt storytelling, 'Muddy People' navigates the delicate balance between tradition and self-discovery. As Soos grapples with her parents' expectations, she learns valuable lessons about love, loyalty, and the complexities of cultural identity. This memoir not only captures the essence of multi-faceted family dynamics but also offers readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Australian multicultural life. El Sayed's vibrant prose and fresh perspective make 'Muddy People: A Memoir' a must-read for anyone interested in exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of growing up. Join Sara El Sayed in this compelling journey of laughter and tears, and find out why critics laud her as a 'refreshing new voice' in Australian literature. Grab your copy now and be prepared for an insightful and entertaining read that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they are balancing on the edge of two worlds.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781760642464
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2021
Publisher: Black Inc
Pages: 256


Description:
'Sara El Sayed has written a book both confident and delicate that will leave you eagerly awaiting her next. Read this!' -Mona Eltahawy

'Sara El Sayed is an enchanting and refreshing new voice in the Australian literary landscape.' -Maxine Beneba Clarke

A hilarious, heartwarming memoir of growing up and becoming yourself in an Egyptian Muslim family

Soos is coming of age in a household with a lot of rules. No bikinis, despite the Queensland heat. No boys, unless he's Muslim. And no life insurance, not even when her father gets cancer.

Soos is trying to balance her parents' strict decrees with having friendships, crushes and the freedom to develop her own values. With each rule Soos comes up against, she is forced to choose between doing what her parents say is right and following her instincts. When her family falls apart, she comes to see her parents as flawed, their morals based on a muddy logic. But she will also learn that they are her strongest defenders.

'Both cosmopolitan and Australian at the same time, Muddy People is like the best kind of cake- warm, sweet, a bit nutty - and made with so much love.' -Alice Pung

'Sara El Sayed's writing is fresh, vibrant and dynamic.' -Michael Mohammed Ahmad