The Abu Dhabi Bar Mitzvah Audiobook By Adam Valen Levinson cover art

The Abu Dhabi Bar Mitzvah

Fear and Love in the Modern Middle East

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The Abu Dhabi Bar Mitzvah

By: Adam Valen Levinson
Narrated by: Vikas Adam
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Armed only with college Arabic and restless curiosity, Adam Valen Levinson set out to "learn about the world 9/11 made us fear." From a base in globalized and sterilized Abu Dhabi, he sets out to lunch in Taliban territory in Afghanistan, travels under the watchful eye of Aleppo's secret police, risks shipwreck en route to Somalia, investigates Yazidi beliefs in a sacred cave, cliff-dives in Oman, celebrates New Year's Eve in Tahrir Square, and, at every turn, discovers a place that matches not at all with its reputation.

While politicians and media eagerly stoke the flames of Islamophobia, Valen Levinson crosses borders with abundant humor and humanity. Seeking common ground everywhere, he finds that people who pray differently often laugh the same. And as a young man bar mitzvahed at 21 (instead of the usual 13), he slowly learns how childish it is to live by decisions and distinctions born of fear.

©2018 Adam Valen Levinson (P)2017 Tantor Adventure Travel Middle East Travel Writing & Commentary Africa Iran Adventure Middle Ages Witty

Critic reviews

"Levinson skillfully relates aspects of his destinations' histories alongside his journalist's observations and personal thoughts and emotions in this unique and illuminating travelogue." ( Booklist)
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As I am perhaps the 1st buyer on Audible of this book I suppose I have an obligation to inform others. The book is a travelogue coupled with some very nice monologues and some not so entertaining ones of the author who clearly writes really well for a 23 years old.
Since it talks about Abu Dhabi it piqued my interest and the books did that justice. The author’s wanderings are amusing and his thoughts honestly presented in the book. It won’t come as a surprise that the author feels deeply and communicates well.

The book is like listening to a friend (an emotional friend) about his journeys. Poignant and pointless.

Interesting journey

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This book was seem to capture many of the thoughts and ideas that I have about travel. It is a perfect reflection of my own restlessness and desire to understand part of the world that seems so off-limits to many people

Captivating!

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