"I wish to emphasize the importance of this novel for its positive and perceptive characterization of Arabs and Muslims and its very welcome, refreshing American view of Islamic people."

"Far from the harsh reality of war and destruction we associate with Iraq, this is a romantic tale set in the southern city of Basra, known as the Venice of the East, in the 1940’s. Infused with love and longing, it weaves a colorful tapestry of life in that multilayered society with all its charms—family life, street life, markets, foods and celebrations—a story that is rich in detail and highly absorbing."

"Sweet Dates in Basra is a wonderfully written story that will capture the heart of anyone who reads it... a charming novel that anyone interested in other cultures should definitely pick up."

"Jiji does a remarkable job of evoking 1940s Iraq in her novel, from the colorful markets to the remote marshes, making for a vibrant read."

"A reminder of the power of the heart over the strictures of tradition."

"Sweet Dates in Basra is a moving novel which brings to life years of friendship and understanding, conflict and violence between Jews and Muslims in Basra. In this story of love and search for identity, Jessica Jiji succeeds fully in capturing passions, depth of feeling and strong relationships beyond ethnic and religious differences."

"Sweet Dates in Basra is a masterfully written tale historically rich in detail and viewpoints, deep, lasting friendships and forbidden love. Sweet Dates in Basra is a novel that draws the reader into another time and place and one that is difficult to leave. I highly recommend, as in find a copy to read now, Sweet Dates in Basra to all readers and believe this to be an excellent choice for a book discussion group."

"Jiji has... skillfully woven together to tell a tale about love and friendship that rises above religion, culture or political perspective."

"Jiji (Diamonds Take Forever) explores the ties that bind and break family, friendship, and love.. [T]he cultural perspective and setting are a nice break from the wartime norm, as is the unexpected ending."

"An engaging story, deftly written, in a country and culture far different from my own. So when turning the last page, I’ve been entertained; moved far afield from my present life; learned something about the world; learned something about another culture and people; and been given the gift of increased empathy and compassion where little previously existed."

The story of family and friendship, tradition and hardship, violence and conflict, in 1941 Iraq with tensions brewing between Muslims and Jews. And more than that it is the story of love that can blossom above and beyond it all without respect to class and religion because the heart wants what it wants. But can it ever have what it wants in the end?

Spoiler below………

"We learn in the author’s end notes that she loosely based this novel on her father’s story. I think this is what brings the truth through the characters and keeps the story from melting into an unbelievable tale of happily ever after winning out over all."

 “a sassy yet sweet voice and sparing no funny, absurd detail... The narration makes the book compulsively readable... A story with a funny, fresh voice."