Tales of the Wounded Land

Toddler Camille scampers excitedly around the house, shouting “Boom!” in alarm each time a distant thud is heard. With every explosion the curtains shake, and tall buildings topple like houses of cards. Later, the family drives through the devastated part of Nabatieh, their hometown in southern Lebanon. The little girl gazes in awe at all the rubble and ruined buildings. Her mother, meanwhile, is unwavering: “We will rebuild all of this,” she says.