The Sisters

Jonas Hassen Khemiri, Transl. Rachel Willson-Broyles
83 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2025

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Book Brief

Jonas Hassen Khemiri, Transl. Rachel Willson-Broyles

The Sisters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2025
Book Details
Pages

656

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Literary Fiction

•

Humor

•

Scandinavian Literature
Setting

Sweden • Contemporary

Theme
Family

•

Fear

•

Hate & Anger
First Publication Year

2025

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In "The Sisters," Jonas Hassen Khemiri, translated by Rachel Willson-Broyles, explores themes of family dynamics and personal identity. The narrative delves into the lives of siblings as they navigate complex relationships, revealing the impact of past experiences on their present lives. Through careful character development, the story emphasizes the nuances of familial bonds.

Contemplative

Emotional

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Sisters by Jonas Hassen Khemiri, translated by Rachel Willson-Broyles, is lauded for its intricate narrative and deep exploration of familial relationships. Readers appreciate the compelling prose and emotional depth. However, some find the plot pacing uneven. Overall, it's a poignant and thought-provoking read that resonates on several emotional levels.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Sisters?

Readers who enjoy The Sisters by Jonas Hassen Khemiri would appreciate complex family dynamics and introspective narratives, similar to Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere. Fans of character-driven stories exploring identity and relationships will find this novel captivating.

Character List

A writer and autofictional narrator who explores his identity and memories while connecting with the Mikkola sisters through their shared themes of belonging and storytelling.

The eldest Mikkola sister who takes on a matriarchal role, characterized by her need for control and stability in a chaotic family environment.

The middle Mikkola sister known for her charm and restlessness, navigating life through performative storytelling and a fear of commitment.

The youngest Mikkola sister, marked by her artistic sensibility and impulsive nature, seeking creative outlets and stability in her life.

The Mikkola family matriarch whose beliefs in a family curse and paranoia influence her daughters’ lives, rooted in her own past.

A charismatic yet absent figure in Jonas's life, whose criticism and dreams of success leave lasting emotional wounds.

A steady presence in Ina’s life, offering a glimpse of stability and intellectual companionship, yet complicated by personal flaws.

A human-rights lawyer whose relationship with Evelyn is marked by intensity and underlying control issues.

A figure from Anastasia’s past, representing a tumultuous and self-destructive relationship that challenges her growth.

Book Details
Pages

656

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Literary Fiction

•

Humor

•

Scandinavian Literature
Setting

Sweden • Contemporary

Theme
Family

•

Fear

•

Hate & Anger
First Publication Year

2025

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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