Masihoo Al-Ahziya (The Shoe Shiners), a novel by Aishah Al-Dowsari published in 2013, tells the story of three shoe shiners on the streets of Beirut, Lebanon, and the extraordinary experiences that change their lives for the better.
Ziyad, Walid and Sarkis embark on voyages of self-discovery, discovering their passions and true calling along the way, and work hard to make their dreams come true despite coming from a tough background of humiliation, torment and degradation because of their occupation. Ziyad, for example, leaves his family behind and travels in search of better job opportunities to Saudi Arabia, where he is introduced to a different culture, society and way of life.
This is an inspirational story that encourages readers to pursue their own dreams despite the hardships one may face.
It is also an interesting read because of its use of both the Saudi and Lebanese dialects, and evident cultural colors.
