A BBC RADIO 2 BOOK CLUB CHOICE 2019
‘This is a novel of international significance. Courageous, provocative, haunting, it will open our eyes’ Heather Morris, author of The Tattooist of Auschwitz
In the midst of war, he found love
In the midst of darkness, he found courage
In the midst of tragedy, he found hope
The Beekeeper of Aleppo
What will you find from his story?
Nuri is a beekeeper; his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape.
As Nuri and Afra travel through a broken world, they must confront not only the pain of their own unspeakable loss, but dangers that would overwhelm the bravest of souls. Above all – and perhaps this is the hardest thing they face – they must journey to find each other again.
Moving, powerful, compassionate and beautifully written, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit. Told with deceptive simplicity, it is the kind of book that reminds us of the power of storytelling.
Dive into the heart-wrenching and profoundly moving world of "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" by Christy Lefteri, a powerful novel that has resonated with readers worldwide and was a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Choice in 2019. This is more than just a story; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable loss and the enduring power of hope. Nuri, a beekeeper, and his wife Afra, an artist, lived a tranquil and fulfilling life in the vibrant Syrian city of Aleppo. Their days were filled with the warmth of family, the camaraderie of friends, and the simple joys of their respective crafts. But their idyllic existence is shattered by the brutal realities of war. Aleppo, once a beacon of culture and community, is reduced to rubble, and the lives of Nuri and Afra are irrevocably changed. Forced to flee their homeland, Nuri and Afra embark on a perilous journey towards an uncertain future in the UK. Their escape is fraught with danger, hardship, and the constant reminder of all they have lost. As they navigate the treacherous path of refugees, they encounter other displaced individuals, each carrying their own burden of sorrow and trauma. The trauma of witnessing such destruction has a particularly devastating effect on Afra, who struggles with the psychological impact of the violence and loss she has endured. "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" is a story about more than just surviving war; its about the fight to retain humanity and connection in the face of unspeakable adversity. Nuri and Afra must confront the deep scars of their past and find a way to heal, both individually and as a couple. The novel delves into the complex emotions of grief, fear, and the struggle to rebuild a life shattered by conflict. It also highlights the importance of empathy, compassion, and the enduring strength of love in the darkest of times. Christy Lefteri's writing is both poignant and evocative, drawing readers into the rich tapestry of Syrian culture and the harrowing realities of the refugee experience. The narrative unfolds with a delicate balance of pain and hope, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us all. Lefteri spent time working as a volunteer in refugee camps in Greece and her experiences informed her writing. She brings a unique authenticity and sensitivity to the story, capturing the voices and experiences of those who have been displaced by war. This edition of "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" comes in paperback form and is part of a special 2-book collection set alongside "A Watermelon, a Fish and a Bible". This collection offers readers a double dose of Christy Lefteri's powerful storytelling, exploring themes of displacement, resilience, and the search for hope in the face of adversity. If you are looking for a moving, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" is an essential read. It is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Prepare to be captivated by this unforgettable story of love, loss, and the unwavering pursuit of hope.