The novel features the story of the narrator, Nuri Ibrahim, and his wife, Afra, as they flee war-torn Syria. The couple embarks on a perilous journey through Turkey and Greece before arriving at their destination in England. The story begins with Nuri describing the situation that befell his wife to an extent of losing her eyesight. Afra suffers from suicidal ideation occasionally. Nuri sympathizes with her situation and convinces her to join him so that they can flee their home country together. The couple’s first destination is Turkey. Turkey is a great country but Nuri longs to reunite with Mustafa in London.
Despair, desperation, and seclusion is common issue that brings refugees together. On their way to seek asylum, refugees share different experiences that keep them going. Nuri along with other refugees depart Turkey via the Mediterranean Sea to Greece. When they get into Greece territory, the refugees’ documents are processed. Although they are placed in a safe refugee camp, Nuri and Afra are uncomfortable. The couple desire to go to England to reunite with Mustafa and other kin.
Nuri is witty and courageous. His beekeeping business along with the struggles in Syria might have hardened him off to become fearless. While at a refugee camp in Athens, he hires a smuggler who helps them get plane tickets for London. Eventually, Nuri and his wife manage to get into England where they reunite with their relatives. The challenges experienced by refugees are of great concern and should be addressed.
