(Reread for my "Intro to 21st Century Literature" class.)

3.5 stars

Given the choice, I definitely wouldn't have revisited this book. But the second/third pass and thoughtful discussions certainly increased my appreciation for the nuances, even if I'm still not totally sold on Hamid's prose or on the characters.

In a nutshell: interesting social commentary, not-so-interesting storytelling.

content warnings:

Spoiler

genocide, xenophobia, violence, minor character deaths

rep:

Spoiler

bi/pan Middle Eastern-coded MC, Middle Eastern-coded (unspecified-)devout MC, diverse minor characters

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CONVERSION: 9.45 / 15 = 3.5 stars

Prose: 4 / 10
Characters & Relationships: 8 / 10
Emotional Impact: 6 / 10
Development / Flow: 4 / 10
Setting: 9 / 10

Diversity & Social Themes: 4 / 5
Intellectual Engagement: 4 / 5
Originality / Trope Execution: N/A
Rereadability: 2 / 5
Memorability: 3 / 5
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[2019]
2.5 stars.

Read for Asian Lit Bingo. RTC.