“Janet Metzger's narration brings measured depth to an otherwise typical coming-of-age story.… The winding river at the center of Charlotte's quest comes alive, subtly anchoring the listener along the way. Metzger captures the interplay between cultural lore and personal reckoning, showcasing Charlotte's evolving perspective.… Metzger's delivery maintains an even tone, mirroring the contemplative pace, rich detail, and emotional undercurrents of this search for belonging, meaning, and, most of all, family.”—AudioFile Magazine

“The novel, written originally in Arabic, has a not-uncommon lyrical style and some use of magic realism. The English translation has maintained these aspects of the original superbly. Most readers would be delighted to read this novel about Charlotte’s adventures in the Iraqi wonderland and gain insight into that region’s history.”—Historical Novels Review

“Original, exceptional, eloquently crafted, inherently fascinating and an entertaining read from start to finish, The River Knows My Name is [a] rich and immersive novel with which author Mortada Gzar (ably translated into English by Luke Leafgren) explores the power of belief, the drive for escape, and the exhilaration of self-discovery.”—Midwest Book Review