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The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem

A generational tale of love, loss, and identity

Sarit Yishai-Levi author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Swift Press

Published:9th Jun '22

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The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem cover

This novel explores the complex relationships between mothers and daughters across generations, focusing on Gabriela and her mother, Luna, in The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem.

A No. 1 international bestseller, The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem is a captivating tale that explores the intricate relationships between mothers and daughters across four generations. At the heart of the story is Gabriela, whose mother, Luna, is celebrated for her beauty within Jerusalem. However, this beauty does not extend to their relationship, leading Gabriela to feel a profound disconnect from her mother. As tragedy strikes, Gabriela begins to uncover the layers of her mother’s life, revealing that there is much more to Luna than meets the eye.

In her quest for understanding, Gabriela delves into the rich tapestry of her family's history, from the revered healer Great-Grandmother Mercada to the hardworking Grandma Rosa, who served English households. Each woman's story contributes to Gabriela's understanding of her mother and the legacy of strength and resilience that has been passed down through the generations. As she learns about the struggles and triumphs of her ancestors, Gabriela confronts the complexities of her own identity.

Spanning decades, The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem beautifully illustrates the journey of women navigating personal and societal challenges. It paints a vivid picture of a family and a young nation striving to forge their own paths amid the expectations and pressures from those around them. This novel invites readers to reflect on the bonds that shape us and the stories that define our lives.

'Fans of Gabriel Garcia Marquez will find much to love in The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem. The narrative islush and rife with scandalous secrets of a passionately opinionated family' - Jewish Journal

'Compelling and satisfying' - B.A. Shapiro

'Paints a vivid picture of the traditions, folklore and language of Jerusalem’s very significant Sephardic community' - Jewish Weekly

'An epic multigenerational saga about the passions and tragedies of a Sephardi (Spanish Jewish) family, fated to marry and live without love' - The Times

ISBN: 9781800750197

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

384 pages