A Memoir on Bodies and Borders in the Middle East

Sara Aziza’s memoir, The Hollow Half: A Memoir of Bodies and Borders, explores her Palestinian-American identity through a mix of personal struggle and familial history. While battling anorexia in a recovery clinic, she recalls her grandmother’s influence and the complexities of belonging amidst cultural dislocation. The narrative intertwines memories, language, and the trauma of the Nakba, revealing how personal and collective histories shape identity. Ultimately, it emphasizes the significance of heritage and the deep ties between bodies, land, and history.

Want More Context? 🔎