I’ve just reviewed Wolves of the Crescent Moon, by Saudi writer Yousef Al-Mohaimeed. You can find my full review here.

I found the book to be interesting for its insight into the lives of those cut off from Saudi mainstream society because they are considered social outcasts: a former slave, a Bedouin denounced by his tribe, an orphan. All lack status and all have exceptionally difficult and precarious rows to hoe in managing life in the city. Lack of connection leaves them variously bruised and on edge, with little hope for improvement in the future. I don’t find the book a particularly good novel, but I think it an excellent look at a segment of Saudi society too often ignored—by Saudis as well as outsiders.