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A Place for Us

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Fatima Farheen Mirza

A Place for Us

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

930L

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Super Short Summary

A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza explores the complex dynamics within a traditional Indian Muslim family. The story centers on Amar, who returns home for his sister Hadia's wedding after years of estrangement, revealing deep-seated conflicts through extensive flashbacks and shifting perspectives. Themes of familial expectations, cultural identity, and personal choices are intricately woven throughout the narrative. Depictions of substance use and post-9/11 discrimination are present.

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

69,988 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Fatima Farheen Mirza's A Place for Us is widely praised for its intricate portrayal of an Indian-American Muslim family grappling with cultural and generational divides. The narrative's depth and emotional resonance are lauded, though some critics find its pacing slow. Overall, it is commended for its sensitive exploration of identity and belonging.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Place for Us?

Readers who cherish stories of family dynamics, cultural identity, and personal growth will enjoy A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza, with its deep emotional resonance paralleling works like The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.

4.2

69,988 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Amar

The youngest child and only son in his family, Amar grapples with living up to the expectations set by his high-achieving siblings. His journey is marked by personal struggles and a strained relationship with his father.

The oldest sibling, Hadia balances her sense of duty to her family with her love for her troubled brother, Amar. Her strong sense of independence is evident in her career and romantic choices.

The middle sibling, Huda is often overshadowed by her siblings yet remains a quiet and obedient presence. She supports Hadia and Amar without judgment and helps facilitate family connections.

A committed husband and father, Rafiq displays tenderness toward his wife and daughters while having a complex relationship with his son, Amar. His disciplinary approach reflects both his hopes and frustrations.

A deeply committed wife and mother, Layla is devoted to the well-being of her family, especially her son Amar. Her gentle approach and heartfelt efforts aim to support Amar through his struggles.

Hadia's supportive husband, Tariq, is well-received by her family and represents her choice of partner. He forms a cordial connection with Amar during family gatherings.

A headstrong and rebellious figure, Abbas serves as a role model to Amar in his community. His unexpected death has a profound impact on those who admired him.

A playful and outspoken young woman, Amira forms a connection with Amar. Their relationship is impacted by family expectations, leaving lingering emotions when they reunite.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

930L

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