Letters from Cairo

When her husband is offered a six-month Fulbright grant to teach American literature at Cairo University, Pauline Kaldas embarks on a new journey - and an opportunity to return home.
Born in Egypt, she immigrated with her parents to the United States when she was eight years old. Returning now with her own children, Kaldas writes from the perspective of an Arab American, straddling two homelands and two identities.
Through a collection of letters, journal entries, essays, and even local recipes, she provides a richly detailed portrait of life in Cairo, recording daily revelations and eventually reconciling past and present. With keen observation and deeply personal reflections, the author presents a thoughtful meditation on the meaning of place, family, and origin.
Kaldas offers insight into the complexities of Egyptian culture. She acts as linguist and cultural interpreter, addressing everything from class issues and political activism to education and the impact of Western culture.

Pauline Kaldas is assistant professor of English and creative writing at Hollins University.