Don't Ask the Trees for Their Names

Stories of Leaving and Becoming

By: Oula Ghannoum (Editor), Loubna Haikal (Editor)

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Paperback | 1 October 2025

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20.0 x 13.0

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In this richly woven tapestry of stories, nine Arab women share their deeply personal journeys of migration to Australia, each reflecting on the legacies of their homelands and the complexities of forging new lives.

In their own voices, they explore the challenges of adaptation, the resilience born from adversity, moments of joy, and the enduring ties to their heritage. With unique perspectives, they examine Australian culture while confronting some of the world's most pressing political injustices through the lens of lived experience.

A powerful testament to individuality and community, Don't Ask the Trees for Their Names seeks to dismantle stereotypes in a world that too often simplifies identity. This compelling collection inspires us all to rise above the barriers of sexism and racism, offering an urgent and unapologetic chorus of truth.

Contributions by: Mariam Maatooq, Loubna Haikal, Mary Hanoun Khilla, Sivine Tabbouch, Hend Saab, Kilda Eid, Camelia Naim, Oula Ghannoum, Nouha El-Khoury Francis.

About the Authors

Oula Ghannoum was born in Tripoli, Lebanon, and is currently a Professor of Plant Biology at Western Sydney University. An internationally renowned expert in plant photosynthesis, her research addresses the twin challenges of food security and climate change. She has published over 100 scientific articles. Beyond science, Oula is passionate about Sufism and storytelling as integrative forms of knowledge. She is currently working on a trilogy exploring her own and her family’s migration to Gadigal Land, Australia.

Loubna Haikal was born in Beirut, Lebanon, and migrated to Australia as a teenager. A trained medical doctor, she worked as a GP before turning to writing. She is the author of Seducing Mr. Maclean (Picador, 2002), along with several short stories and plays. A mother of three sons and a grandmother, Loubna lives on the land of the Gadigal people in Merro-berah.

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