![Bird Summons](https://media.lowellbooks.com/covers/2020/9781474600934.webp)
This is an enchanting, tender portrait of three women searching for freedom. Salma, happily married, tries every day to fit into life in Britain. When her first love contacts her, she is tempted to risk it all and return to Egypt. Moni gave up a career in banking to care for her disabled son, but now her husband wants to move to Saudi Arabia - where she fears her son's condition will worsen. Iman feels burdened by her beauty. In her twenties and already in her third marriage, she is treated like a pet and longs for freedom. On a road trip to the Scottish Highlands, the women are visited by the Hoopoe, a sacred bird whose fables from Muslim and Celtic literature compel them to question the balance between faith and femininity, love, loyalty and sacrifice.
Leila Aboulela
Leila Aboulela is a Sudanese author known for her novel "The Translator," which explores themes of cultural identity and belonging. Her lyrical prose and nuanced characterizations have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal readership. Aboulela's work sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and migration.