Sex and Lies

True Stories of Women's Intimate Lives in the Arab World

By: Leila Slimani, Sophie Lewis - translator

Narrated by: Sarah Agha

"Jaw-dropping . . . Inspiring . . . A haunting and beautifully composed book . . . It blew my mind." --Lisa Taddeo, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Three Women

A fearless exposé of the secrets and lies of women's intimate lives, by the bestselling author of The Perfect Nanny, Adèle, and In the Country of Others

"All those in positions of authority--politicians, parents, teachers--maintain the same line: 'Do what you like, but do it in private.' "

Leila Slimani was in her native Morocco promoting her novel Adèle, about a woman addicted to sex, when she began meeting women who confided the dark secrets of their sexual lives. In Morocco, adultery, abortion, homosexuality, prostitution, and sex outside of marriage are all punishable by law, and women have only two choices: They can be wives or virgins. Sex and Lies combines vivid, often harrowing testimonies with Slimani's passionate and intelligent commentary to make a galvanizing case for a sexual revolution in the Arab world.

slay

I also read the French version and I feel like the translator took some liberties, but nonetheless a very moving collection of stories.

Necessary book

While there are many feminist books in the West, outside this cultural area there is complete emptiness. I am from Romania and many of the things the author describes are true for Eastern Europe as well. Otherwise, indeed, the book could have been better, especially in the research area. But it is difficult to find fault with Ms. Slimani - she made a generous effort.

Insightful

Realistic and enjoyable describing personal lives, social and political challenges in Morocco. Also somewhat characteristic of the Arab world.