Nussaibah Younis Bücher

A wickedly funny and audacious debut novel follows an academic who escapes heartbreak and finds herself in Iraq with a unique job offer—only to confront her own challenges. When Nadia Amin, a witty PhD, publishes an article on deradicalization, the United Nations approaches her to lead a rehabilitation program for women affected by harmful ideologies. Abandoned by her mother and heartbroken, she eagerly accepts the opportunity. In Iraq, Nadia quickly realizes the complexities of her situation. The UN is rife with competing interests, and her team includes the overly moralistic Sherri, who constantly critiques her, and Pierre, a snarky Frenchman more interested in Grindr than the mission. However, Nadia's perspective shifts when she meets Sara, a hilarious East Londoner lured into radicalism at fifteen. The two bond, and Nadia is determined to help Sara return home. As the program progresses, Sara reveals a secret that forces Nadia to make a difficult decision. In the aftermath, Nadia's idealistic notions of being a savior begin to unravel, leading her to question whether she can truly help someone who resists being saved. This fierce, humorous exploration of radicalism, family, and belonging boldly examines a defining controversy of our time and introduces a fearless new voice in contemporary fiction.