Books
by Mohsin Hamid
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Exit West |
I found this to be something of an enigma. Although dealing with a situation of tyranny and war in an unspecified eastern country Exit West has the air of a fairy story written in almost Biblical language. Mohsin Hamid uses a simplistic approach to transport us into a world of fantasy that has parallels with Alice in Wonderland although his characters, perhaps intentionally, lack definition. I was left with much to think about.
(Judith Peppitt - bwl 88 Spring 2018) |
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The Reluctant Fundamentalist |
If you've read Màrai's Embers (bwl 13 & 30) you will recognise this mesmerizing narrative device: a monologue by the protagonist (in this case, a Pakistani Princetown graduate) towards a silent and ambiguous companion in which he explains and justifies his actions. In an atmosphere of suspense and tension, Mohsin dissects the effects of a doomed love affair and the cataclysmic fall-out following 9/11 which contribute to his hero's despair, disillusionment and ultimate fundamental change of values and beliefs.
(Jenny Baker - bwl 44 February 2008) |
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