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Cover of In Praise of Hatred
Historical Fiction· Syria

In Praise of Hatred

by Khaled Khalifa
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
★Booker Prize
Published 2006Arabic
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About This Book

Khaled Khalifa's In Praise of Hatred (2006) stands as one of the most significant works of historical fiction of its era. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s Syrian conflict, In Praise of Hatred tells the story of a young woman's radicalization and her journey through a society torn by violence and repression. Khaled Khalifa's novel is a powerful exploration of hatred, fanaticism, and the impact of political turmoil on personal lives. The book has been recognized for its insightful portrayal of Syria's complex social and political landscape. Themes of radicalization, violence, political turmoil run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorKhaled Khalifa
Published2006
Country of Origin🇸🇾 Syria
LanguageArabic
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN9781846592119
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇸🇾 Syria

This book is part of Syria's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Syria →

Editorial Assessment

In Praise of Hatred by Khaled Khalifa sits within the tradition of historical fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 2006 in Syria, it engages with radicalization, violence, political turmoil, fanaticism in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. What distinguishes In Praise of Hatred is how it handles its central concerns — radicalization, violence, political turmoil, fanaticism — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. In Praise of Hatred reflects Khaled Khalifa's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Syria's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Booker Prize
shortlist · regional
20080
✍️
About the Author
Khaled Khalifa
Syria
View Author →

Khaled Khalifa is a Syria author whose work in historical fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is In Praise of Hatred about?

Set against the backdrop of the 1980s Syrian conflict, In Praise of Hatred tells the story of a young woman's radicalization and her journey through a society torn by violence and repression. Khaled Khalifa's novel is a powerful exploration of hatred, fanaticism, and the impact of political turmoil on personal lives. The book has been recognized for its insightful portrayal of Syria's complex social and political landscape.

Who wrote In Praise of Hatred?

In Praise of Hatred was written by Khaled Khalifa, from Syria. First published in 2006.

What awards has In Praise of Hatred won?

In Praise of Hatred has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is In Praise of Hatred worth reading?

In Praise of Hatred is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in radicalization, violence, political turmoil.

Where can I buy In Praise of Hatred?

You can buy In Praise of Hatred on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is In Praise of Hatred?

In Praise of Hatred is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is In Praise of Hatred from?

In Praise of Hatred originates from Syria's literary tradition. Explore more books from Syria on our country page.

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