We Just Want to Live Here

We Just Want to Live Here

by: Amal Rifa'i and Odelia Ainbinder with Sylke Tempel

published by: St. Martin's Griffin

Summary: We Just Want to Live Here is a true story of Amal--a palestinian teenager and Odelia--an Israeli teenager--both are living in the same country. The girls are trying to get along while their leaders and fighting to kill one another. Throughout the book the girls discuss topics that are very dear to them and that are also very controversial. Things like government and religion and the different beliefs or customs they each have. They often disagree and they tell each other so, but they are never attacking each other. There is a politeness and respect that threads their conversations. They don't know if they can remain friends forever because of their situation, but they know that the friendship they did share was real and would never be forgotten.

Personal Review: I enjoyed this book immensely. I learned about so much I didn't really know, and saw how two people can successfully disagree and remain friends. I think that is the mark of true friendship and deep respect for one another. I loved hearing about their different customs and different ways of viewing the world.

Cautionary Notes: sensetive subjects touched upon