Letters To Palestine By Vijay Prashad

Review by: Gabrielle Guerra

The short
A collection of stories, poems, and news accounts by American writers, scholars, and journalist documenting the struggle for Palestinian autonomy and their solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The long
One of the first articles of the book, “Americans Are So Deranged About Palestine” by Junot Díaz sets the tone for the rest of the book. In the United States, to question the relationship between the government and Israel, one often faces ridicule. This book gives the perspective of Americans who are tired of being silenced for supporting the Palestinian cause. It offers a raw and intimate retelling of their experience in standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people. From writers such as Junot Díaz, Noura Erakat, Remi Kanazi and so many other talented essayist, reporters, poets, and scholars this book captures the lived experience of the on-the-ground reality of Palestine under apartheid and the strength and beauty of the Palestinian people.

To read or not to read?
While this book brings with it a sense of heaviness and accountability, it also dares to address the current policy decisions the US has had with Israel and the blatant dismissal of Palestinian autonomy. If you are trying to learn more about the current Palestinian situation, this book is a must-read.