Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis

 

Fundamentally was a look at a topic that I knew virtually nothing about.  Nadia leaves London, after losing her best friend and sometimes lover, to rehabilitate ISIS brides through an agency at the UN.  She travels to Iraq and learns that there is a lot of political red tape to be able to make a difference.  She connects with one of the women, Sara, who reminds her of her younger self.  After trying everything in her power, Nadia puts it all on the line to make a difference for Sara.  

I'll be honest that this is not a book that I would typically read.  Nadia is not a character that I would normally identify with but I liked the voice that she had.  I enjoyed reading about her back story and what brought her to Iraq.  I did not like reading about all of the political drama that surrounded the women held in the camps.  I completely understand how awful it is and it is important to write about this so people understand what is really going on.  I just personally had a hard time reading about it, especially when I know that there would be no real resolution.  I thought the writing was good and there were some funny moments.  It also had a better ending than I thought it would.  I do think there are many people who would enjoy this book.