Etaf Rum’s second book is as genius as the first, but in a completely different way. Watching 3 generations of women function in marriages that include prison camp, spousal abuse, racism and societal expectations as well as the legacy of those in families is incredibly revelatory as you discover the hidden strength and resiliency that each develops.

The main character, Yara, is on a journey of her own, through marriage, motherhood, societal and family expectations. An offhand racist remark at work that hit far below the belt sends the character reeling into a labyrinth in which she is unfairly blamed for her simple and truthful response to the attack. Yara struggles to find herself, as an individual, outside the expectations of everyone else for her. This smart, educated woman meanders through her own past, her memories, and even her present, to truly understand who SHE is, and how she has become this person.

As poets and philosophers have noted, sometimes one must throw off the burdens of one’s past to become who they are meant to be, truly. This beautiful account of such an endeavor will inspire readers to truly reconsider their perspectives, and perhaps help some personal journeys to take flight.

Yara’s story of being raised in the United States by struggling Arab parents reads like a memoir. I was completely engaged with Yara as she felt trapped by her marriage and wondered if she was a bad person. Was there a curse on her family? She wanted a better life for herself and her two daughters, but how could she make that happen? Evil Eye is just as wonderful as Etaf Rum’s first book, A Woman is No Man. This glimpse into a different culture than my own is truly welcome and unforgettable.