Al-Thajjah

Set in Al-Thajjah, a scenic mountainous region in Yemen, Al-Thajjah depicts the lives of two neighboring families, the Al-Ibbis and the Al-Radhis, across generations. The novel explores themes of land disputes, tribal politics, and changing social norms in a region with deep-rooted traditions.

Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the story portrays the families’ intertwining histories from Yemen’s Ottoman era up to recent times. It follows members of the Al-Ibbi family, in particular schoolteacher Mokhtar, as they strive to hold on to their lands despite the machinations of the increasingly powerful Al-Radhi family. Against a backdrop of war, rising extremism, and family feuds, the novel offers a glimpse into village life and the struggles of ordinary Yemenis living through turbulent times.

With warmth and insight, acclaimed writer Fikria Shahrah crafts an absorbing multi-generational family saga centered around inheritance, honor, and enduring bonds to land and heritage. Al-Thajjah is a nuanced exploration of identity, tribal politics, and cultural change set in one of Yemen’s most scenic regions.