Songs for the Brokenhearted: A Novel By Ayelet Tsabari

In the evocative debut novel Echoes of Saida, a young Yemeni Israeli woman, Zohara, uncovers her mother’s hidden past and embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery and familial bonds. The story weaves together two timelines and explores the intricate connections between a mother and daughter.

In 1950, amidst the turmoil of post-immigration Israel, Yaqub, a reserved young man, encounters Saida, a captivating woman singing by the river in an overcrowded immigrant camp in Rosh Ha’ayin. Despite the chaos surrounding them, a forbidden romance blossoms between them. Saida, married and with a child, is caught in a complex situation where a relationship with Yaqub defies social norms and expectations.

Fast forward to 1995, Zohara, Saida’s daughter, has built a life for herself in New York City, seeking refuge from the complexities of her past in Israel. In New York, she distanced herself from her heritage, her mother’s traditional Yemeni music, and the memories of a family divided by cultural and personal struggles. When her estranged sister Lizzie informs her of their mother’s passing, Zohara returns to Israel with no intention of coming back.

Her journey home reveals startling truths about her family’s past, unearths hidden dangers, and challenges her understanding of her parents and heritage. As Zohara delves into her mother’s secret romance and the life she left behind, she must confront the past to reconcile her own future.

Echoes of Saida is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the impact of family secrets. It offers a vivid portrayal of the complexities of cultural heritage and the enduring connection between generations. 📚❤️