Book Review: The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother) by M.J. Leake
When I first stumbled upon The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother), I was uncertain about what kind of narrative awaited me—a feeling that has often led to some of my most delightful literary surprises. Author M.J. Leake crafts a captivating tale that, despite tackling very heavy themes like kidnapping, rape, and the complexities of trauma during the Lebanese Civil War, manages to exude warmth and tenderness. I often seek out books that explore the intricate tapestries of family dynamics, and Leake’s delightful characterizations had me turning pages eagerly.
At the heart of the story are Raja, a neurotic introvert and schoolteacher, and his eccentric, fiercely loving mother, Zarfa. Raja lives a peculiar yet relatable life filled with both mundane and extraordinary moments, encapsulated perfectly by the chaos of family dramas that unfold while their country crumbles around them. I found myself genuinely drawn into their world—a world where war rumbles softly in the background, yet the everyday normalcy of life continues much like it does for us all. The relationship between Raja and Zarfa was beautifully explored; I loved how Zarfa, despite her own struggles, became the ultimate protector of her son, even hosting demonstrations and befriending the local mob queen.
As the narrative shifts between past and present, we uncover Raja’s traumatic history—a story that starts with his capture by a militia man but also reveals the unbreakable bond he shares with his mother. The juxtaposition of the harrowing aspects of Raja’s life against the everyday family issues made me reflect on how resilience can flourish even amid turmoil. One detail that stood out was how Zarfa made personal sacrifices—moving out of her husband’s room to allow Raja to keep a mangy feral cat. It painted a vivid picture of a mother’s love that is robust enough to defy societal expectations.
Leake’s writing style is both fluid and evocative. The pacing, while occasionally meandering with its non-linear timeline, felt authentic in reflecting the disarray of both Raja’s internal and external worlds. I found myself marking passages that resonated: the small moments of laughter, the absurdity of a giant childhood table salvaged from Raja’s home, and Zarfa’s quiet activism—all brought together in a way that illuminated the beauty in everyday life. It reminded me of a similar, yet more whimsical vibe found in The Emperor of Gladness, but Raja’s story feels richer and more intricate in its plotting.
This is not a romance in the traditional sense, yet it is undoubtedly a love story—a profound exploration of the bond between a mother and son. If you are someone who appreciates narratives steeped in family love, resilience, and the ordinary beauty woven into the fabric of life, then this book is for you.
Reading The True True Story of Raja the Gullible wasn’t just an escape; it was a privilege that left me reflecting on familial bonds and the navigating of trauma. It’s impossible not to be touched by Raja and Zarfa’s journey—hugging the spectrum from heart-wrenching to heartwarming. I genuinely loved my time with this book, and I can’t wait to see how it resonates with fellow readers. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance review copy; I’m leaving this review out of pure enthusiasm for a story that deserves to be celebrated.
Discover more about The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mothe… on GoodReads >>