When We Were Arabs

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Exploring the rich tapestry of Arab Jewish identity, this memoir recounts the lives of Massoud Hayoun's grandparents in Egypt, Tunisia, and Palestine, juxtaposed with their experiences in Los Angeles. It highlights a time when being Arab transcended religious definitions, showcasing figures like Oscar Hayoun, who embodied cosmopolitanism before facing the harsh realities of a changing world. Through personal storytelling, Massoud seeks to reclaim a nuanced identity, offering insights into complex cultural heritages and a nearly forgotten era of sophistication in the Arab world.