Crescent by Diana Abu-Jaber is a beautifully written contemporary novel that blends romance, cultural identity, and the evocative world of Middle Eastern cuisine. Set within the vibrant Arab-American community of Los Angeles, the story follows thirty-nine-year-old Sirine, a gifted chef whose passions are stirred only by the dishes she prepares — until a charismatic Arabic literature professor begins visiting her restaurant, setting her heart and world ablaze.
As their tender romance unfolds, Crescent delicately explores the complexities of love, memory, and heritage. Sirine, raised by her devoted Iraqi-immigrant uncle after the tragic loss of her parents, finds herself navigating questions of identity and belonging as she reconnects with her cultural roots. The narrative is steeped in rich descriptions of food, history, and storytelling traditions, with echoes of fables and family lore woven throughout. Abu-Jaber’s lyrical prose invites readers into a world where the kitchen is a sanctuary and every dish carries the weight of memory and meaning.
A sensuous, atmospheric novel praised for its lush style and emotional depth, Crescent is ideal for readers drawn to stories of immigrant experiences, food-centred fiction, and reflective, character-driven love stories.
