'Salaita makes an invaluable contribution here, not only to the study of Arab American literature but to the emergence of Arab American studies as a field. Leaping over the glib celebration of hybridity that often passes for critical analysis of ethnic literature, and at the same time skillfully wielding what is useful from theory, Salaita takes a pragmatic, ethical approach to understanding new as well as classic Arab American fiction, in an authorial voice that is congenial, generous and trustworthy.' - Mohja Kahf, Associate Professor, University of Arkansas, USA
'Salaita's Arab American Literary Fictions, Cultures, and Politics is an exceptional blend of personal recollections and observations, literary criticism and narrative history. This intellectually stimulating and absorbing collection is not only an important contribution to better understanding Arab American culture and society, but a vital contribution to Arab American Studies.' - Nathalie Handal, Author of The Lives of Rain and editor of The Poetry of Arab Women
'This is an excellent resource to scholars of Ethnic Studies, American Studies, and Literary Studies who are interested in incorporating Arab American Studies into their courses and departmental agendas. In addition to making a persuasive case for the importance of Arab American literature, Salaita, drawing from his background in Native American Studies, offers a unique and valuable methodological and conceptual approach to Arab American Studies. Salaita is a leading scholar whose work holds tremendous relevance for the future of American Studies.' - Evelyn Alsultany, Assistant Professor, Program in American Culture, University of Michigan, USA
This book will make an important contribution to the emerging field of Arab American studies. The most valuable aspect of Salaita's study is not necessarily the set of answers that the he provides, but rather the insightful and discerning questions he asks about the feasibility of an Arab American Studies, the role of politics/war in Arab American literature, how to ensure that Arab Americans are not rendered 'perpetually inalterable,' and the existence of deeply entrenched stereotypes of Arabs that allow hoaxes such as Norma Khouri's to succeed. Throughout this book, the writing is original, informative, and graceful. - Susan Muaddi Darraj, Associate Professor at Harford Community College, USA; Author of Scheherazade's Legacy: Arab and Arab-American Women on Writing and The Inheritance of Exile