An Unnecessary Woman By: Rabih Alameddine

Discover "An Unnecessary Woman" by Rabih Alameddine

"An Unnecessary Woman," a captivating novel by Rabih Alameddine, invites you into the world of Aaliya Saleh, a woman whose life is as multifaceted and intriguing as the books she translates. Dive into this breathtaking portrait of a reclusive yet intellectually vibrant woman, set against the backdrop of Beirut's rich history.

About the Novel

Aaliya Saleh, the novel's protagonist, lives alone in her Beirut apartment, surrounded by a lifetime's collection of books. A divorcee with no children and estranged from her family, she is often considered an "unnecessary appendage." Yet, within these pages, we discover that Aaliya is anything but unnecessary.

Each year, she translates one of her favorite books into Arabic, adding to her collection of thirty-seven unread translations. These books serve as windows into her world, revealing a mind that ricochets between past and present, literature and memory, philosophy and art.

The narrative follows Aaliya's digressive thoughts as she grapples with the challenges of aging and emotional turmoil. But when an unimaginable disaster threatens to shatter her already fragile life, we witness Aaliya's strength and resilience.

"An Unnecessary Woman" is not just a story about one woman's life; it's a love letter to literature and its power to define us. Rabih Alameddine masterfully weaves together themes of family, identity, and the redemptive power of art.

About the Author

Rabih Alameddine, the prodigiously gifted author behind this magnificent novel, is a man of dual nationality. Born in Lebanon and raised in America, he divides his time between San Francisco and Beirut.

Alameddine's other notable works include "Koolaids," "I, the Divine," "The Hakawati," and "The Perv." Each of these novels showcases his unique ability to blend magical realism with profound insight into human nature.

Book Details

• Binding: This edition is available in paperback format, making it easy to carry around and perfect for readers who prefer a lightweight book.
• ISBN-13: 9781472119209
• Language: The novel is written in English, with translations of the books Aaliya reads from their original languages.
• Number of Pages: With 304 pages, "An Unnecessary Woman" offers a satisfyingly substantial reading experience.
• Publisher: Hachette India
• Publisher Date: February, 2015
• Imprint: Corsair

Experience the rich tapestry of Aaliya's life as she navigates her way through memory, literature, and loss. "An Unnecessary Woman" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of books on our lives.