Can you recommend some must - read Middle East books in fiction?

Sure. 'The Map of Salt and Stars' is a wonderful Middle East fiction book. It tells a story of a Syrian girl and her journey. Then there's 'Girls of Riyadh' by Rajaa Alsanea which gives an interesting view into the lives of young Saudi women. And 'Cities of Salt' by Abdelrahman Munif is also well - known for its exploration of Arabian society.

Sure. 'The Map of Love' by Ahdaf Soueif. It weaves together the stories of three women across different time periods in Egypt. It's a beautifully written book that explores love, politics, and cultural identity in the Middle East context.

Yes. 'A Woman in Jerusalem' by A. B. Yehoshua. It's set in Jerusalem and delves into the complex relationships between different ethnic and religious groups in the Middle East. It's a story that gives insights into the daily lives and historical tensions in the area. Also, 'The Map of Love' by Ahdaf Soueif. It weaves together different time periods in Egypt's history, exploring themes of love, family, and the impact of colonialism.

One great book is 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini. It offers a vivid portrayal of Afghan society. Another is 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' also by Hosseini, which delves deep into the lives of Afghan women. And 'Midnight's Children' by Salman Rushdie has elements related to the region and is a masterful work of magical realism.

I would recommend 'Saladin: The Novel' by Tariq Ali. This book delves into the life of Saladin, a significant figure in the medieval Middle East. It provides detailed historical context while also telling a captivating story of power, politics, and the clash of cultures.

'Palestine' by Joe Sacco. It's a graphic novel that provides a unique perspective on the Palestinian situation. Through Sacco's detailed drawings and on - the - ground reporting, it gives readers a sense of the daily life and struggles in Palestine.

Sure. 'The Mysterious Island' sequel. It continues the adventure on an uncharted island with new challenges and characters. It's full of suspense and exploration.

A really good 2020 fiction book is 'Interior Chinatown' by Charles Yu. This book is unique in its form and content. It uses a screenplay - like structure to tell the story of an Asian - American actor trying to make it in Hollywood. It delves deep into issues of race, stereotypes, and the immigrant experience. It's not only an entertaining read but also makes you think a lot about these important topics.

F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' is a wonderful fiction book. Set in the 1920s, it shows the glamour and the hollowness of the Jazz Age. The story of Jay Gatsby's unrequited love for Daisy Buchanan and the decadence of the upper class is both captivating and tragic.

Sure. 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney is a great choice. It's a beautifully written novel about the relationship between two Irish teenagers, Connell and Marianne, as they grow up and navigate their complex feelings for each other.