Book Review: As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow – By Zoulfa Katouh

Sania Shabir

It is a powerful and heart-wrenching debut novel by Zoulfa Katouh, set against the backdrop of the Syrian civil war. It masterfully blends historical fiction with magical realism, capturing the raw emotions of loss, hope, and resilience.

The story follows Salama Kassab, a young woman who was once a pharmacy student but is thrust into the chaos of war after her country descends into violence. Salama works at a hospital, trying to save lives while grappling with her own trauma and survivor’s guilt. What sets this novel apart is the haunting presence of Khawf, a hallucination that embodies her fear, constantly reminding her of the dangers she faces. This psychological aspect adds a gripping layer to the narrative, blurring the lines between reality and Salama’s inner turmoil. The lemon trees serve as a poignant metaphor throughout the book—representing both memory and the enduring spirit of the Syrian people.

While Katouh’s writing is deeply evocative, painting vivid images of a war-torn Syria while beautifully illustrating the small glimmers of hope and love that persist even in the darkest times, what I didn’t like about the book was her writing style. It felt overly simplistic at times, almost as if the author didn’t trust the readers to grasp the emotional weight of the story on their own. Every feeling, every metaphor, and every message was spelled out in painstaking detail. There was little room left for interpretation or reflection. I personally prefer stories that allow subtlety—where the silence between the lines speaks as loudly as the words on the page. Katouh’s approach, though well-intentioned, left me wishing for more nuance and space to think. 

The Characters

The characters are richly developed, with Salama standing out as a symbol of courage and sacrifice. Her relationship with Kenan, a boy she meets along the way, introduces a tender subplot of love and companionship amidst destruction. Their bond is a reminder that even in war, humanity and connection remain vital. The relationship of Salama with Layla – her best friend is the most poignant part of the whole novel.

One of the most striking aspects of As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is Katouh’s ability to humanize the Syrian conflict. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to make you feel. The descriptions of war-torn Syria are vividly haunting, and Salama’s journey is one that stays with you. The lemon trees, representing hope and memory, are a beautiful recurring motif that adds some poetry to the narrative. The book gives voice to countless unheard stories, shedding light on the personal cost of war, making it deeply moving and thought-provoking for readers worldwide.

Overall, As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is not just a novel—it’s a call to remember, empathize, and stand in solidarity with those who endure war. Katouh’s prose is poetic and immersive, making this a must-read for anyone seeking a story that lingers long after the final page. Despite its flaws, As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is a book I believe more people should read. It may not be subtle, but it carries a necessary message that lingers long after the last page. Sometimes, even if the delivery isn’t perfect, the story is too important to ignore. Zoulfa Katouh brings much-needed attention to the human cost of war, giving voice to those often unheard. It may not be perfect in execution, but its message resonates deeply, and for that, I respect it.

Rating: 3.5 if I could!

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.