I have never read this book in the English translation, but I am sure that in any language, the feeling of it is the same. It is the story of an Arab child being raised by an old Jewish woman. And through them, the most beautiful and unusual love story emerges. There are several dualities within the book (Jewish/Arabic, Rich/Poor,Young/Old) but the narrator, as he is a child, sees no conflict here. Through Momo's eyes, the rich and old, the young and poor, all merge together into a sad and beautiful universe which is uniquely his and Madame Rosa's. It is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read and if your French skills are even moderate, I highly recommend you pick up a copy of the French, La Vie Devant Soi.