Three Unexpected Births

About this book

At thirty, Radwan Al-Alawi chooses not to wait for old age before telling his story. This candid memoir follows a life through the alleys of Fez and the streets of exile, from youthful recklessness to repentance, and from alcohol to Mecca. Poverty, separation, departure, and disappointed hopes become the forces from which a more resilient self is born. The author writes without polishing away failure, presenting an ordinary man made remarkable by his willingness to confront what happened to him. Strangers sometimes offer what relatives withhold; betrayal precedes loyalty; and truth remains the final refuge. The book's three unexpected “births” are transformations rather than dates, inviting readers to recognize how breakdown, faith, and renewed purpose can begin a life again.