50 pages 1 hour read

Hanif Kureishi

The Buddha of Suburbia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Buddha of Suburbia by Hanif Kureishi follows Karim Amir, a mixed-race teenager in 1970s London, as he navigates identity, class, and race. Alienated at school and home, he dreams of an exciting life. When his father becomes the "Buddha of Suburbia" and leaves for London with Eva, Karim joins them, finding success in theater, grappling with his sexuality, and confronting fame.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Hanif Kureishi's The Buddha of Suburbia offers a sharp, comedic exploration of identity and class in 1970s London. The novel's wit and cultural insights have garnered praise, though some critique its pacing and character depth. Despite its flaws, it remains a compelling read for its vibrant portrayal of suburbia's complexities.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Buddha of Suburbia?

Readers who enjoy The Buddha of Suburbia by Hanif Kureishi are typically drawn to coming-of-age stories set against diverse cultural backgrounds, akin to White Teeth by Zadie Smith. They appreciate themes of identity, integration, and societal critique, set in a vivid depiction of 1970s London.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

British Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Values/Ideas: Music

Topics

History: World

LGBTQ