"A formidable woman, a fine artist, and an inspired publisher."--PEN

Writings on gender in the Middle East generally neglect issues of male identity. Arguing that masculinity is as socially constructed as femininity, the authors investigate the ways in which men are acting, reacting, and adapting to the structural upheaval of the -traditional- family.

A twelve-year-old girl writes an essay that extols revenge to impress her teacher, and is surprised to receive criticism rather than praise. 'Revenge', Mrs Nomy insists, is 'the most cowardly' human behaviour. Years later, having fled Beirut, she reflects upon the devastating role revenge has played in her country. Might she have found it so easy to forgive if she had stayed? Or might she, too, have contemplated retribution? This is a compelling and humane book, which abounds in courage and compassion.