As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh is an emotional young-adult novel set in Syria during the revolution and civil war. The story follows Salama Kassab, a young woman who once dreamed of becoming a pharmacist but finds her life transformed by the devastating conflict around her.
After losing members of her family, Salama begins working in a hospital, helping treat people injured by the war. Although she desperately wants to leave Syria, she feels a strong responsibility toward the people who still need her help. Her emotional struggle becomes even more difficult as she tries to cope with grief, fear, trauma, and the possibility of losing those she loves.
Salama’s life changes when she meets Kenan, a young man whose presence gives her a reason to imagine a future beyond the destruction surrounding them. Their relationship develops alongside the harsh realities of war, creating a story filled with love, uncertainty, and difficult choices.
The novel presents the Syrian conflict through the experiences of ordinary people and explores how war affects families, dreams, identity, and hope. It also highlights the courage of people who continue helping others despite their own suffering.
Book Information
- Author: Zoulfa Katouh
- Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Romance, War Fiction
- Published: 2022
- Main Characters: Salama Kassab, Kenan
Book Features
- Emotional and character-driven storytelling
- Strong young female protagonist
- Set against the background of the Syrian conflict
- Explores the human impact of war
- Themes of love, grief, courage, and hope
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