A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi

A Very Large Expanse of Sea

by Tahereh Mafi

Extended Synopsis

In A Very Large Expanse of Sea, Tahereh Mafi delivers a semi-autobiographical, visceral portrait of life in 2002, a year after the events of 9/11. The story follows Shirin, a sixteen-year-old Muslim girl who is exhausted by the stereotypes, rude stares, and physical violence she endures for her race, her religion, and her hijab. To protect herself, Shirin has built impenetrable walls, finding solace only in music and break-dancing with her brother.

Everything changes when she meets Ocean James. He is the first person in years who genuinely wants to know the girl behind the defenses. Their connection terrifies Shirin, as they come from seemingly irreconcilable worlds. Mafi masterfully explores the complexities of navigating adolescence and first love while under the crushing weight of societal prejudice, resulting in a narrative that is both timely and timeless.

Reader Targeting

• Contemporary YA Readers: Fans of character-driven stories that tackle difficult social issues with nuance and heart.
• Diverse Narrative Seekers: Readers looking for authentic Muslim representation and stories about the immigrant experience in America.
• Fans of Realistic Romance: Those who appreciate the exploration of "first love" amidst complex external pressures.

Accolades & Awards

• Longlisted for the National Book Award for Young People's Literature.
• A New York Times and USA Today Bestseller.
• Highly acclaimed for its honest depiction of post-9/11 America.

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