59 pages 1 hour read

Omar El Akkad

What Strange Paradise

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad follows Amir, a young Syrian refugee, whose life is divided between "Before" chapters detailing his flight from war-torn Syria and journey on a precarious smuggler boat, and "After" chapters focusing on his relationship with Vänna, a local girl who helps him navigate the hostile environment of the country where he lands. The novel highlights the struggles of migrants and the tensions in host countries.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Omar El Akkad's What Strange Paradise is lauded for its poignant depiction of the refugee crisis through the eyes of a child. Critics appreciate its compelling narrative and emotional depth, though some feel the plot is occasionally slow and overly symbolic. Overall, it is considered a powerful, timely novel that resonates deeply with readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read What Strange Paradise?

Readers who are captivated by stories of human resilience and social justice will enjoy What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad. Fans of Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner and Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West will appreciate the poignant narrative and powerful exploration of the global refugee crisis.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Immigration / Refugee

Social Justice

Politics / Government

Themes

Relationships: Friendship

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Genre

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Modern Classic Fiction