num_pages: 208
description: Maryam is stuck in an abusive marriage living with her in-laws in a conservative toxically religious Middle Eastern setting. A few years back her father was given a jar of priceless perfume by a dying leper and it seemed as if their fortunes would improve but then Maryams father contracted leprosy and was exiled by the village. Maryam and her brother Eleazar and sister Marta experience the shame and ostracism this brings. The precious jar that was meant to bring them freedom but it only seems to have brought destruction. But rumours abound concerning a new doctor; perhaps hope is on the horizon
language: English
title: Alabaster: What is Most Precious is Also Most Fragile
publisher: Lion Hudson