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Alif the Unseen

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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G. Willow Wilson

Alif the Unseen

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Middle East • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Alif the Unseen, an Arab-Indian hacker named Alif flees from a power-hungry state security force known as the Hand after creating a program that can identify individuals based on their computer usage. Alongside his friend Dina, a jinn named Vikram, and an American scholar, Alif protects an ancient book, the Alf Yeom, from falling into the wrong hands, while navigating the mystical world of the jinn and battling government oppression. The book contains scenes of psychological torture.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

19,175 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

G. Willow Wilson's Alif the Unseen blends political intrigue with fantasy, set in a reimagined Middle East. Positively noted for its unique fusion of genres and engaging plot, it also tackles social issues and technology's role in modern rebellion. Some critics felt the pacing uneven, and the world-building occasionally dense. Overall, an inventive and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Alif the Unseen?

A reader who enjoys Alif the Unseen by G. Willow Wilson is likely fascinated by a blend of modern technology, political intrigue, and elements of the supernatural. They may also appreciate novels like American Gods by Neil Gaiman or The City & The City by China Miéville, which merge reality with myth and fantasy in a thought-provoking narrative.

4.0

19,175 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Alif

The protagonist who uses the first letter of the Arabic alphabet as his internet alias and finds himself embroiled in a conflict between the seen and unseen worlds as a gray hat hacker.

Alif's childhood friend who exudes confidence and strength, marked by her decision to veil her face despite societal expectations.

A jinn with shifting appearances who helps Alif and his friends navigate the mysteries surrounding the Alf Yeom, showing care for humans.

An American student studying ancient texts who becomes connected to the jinn world and reflects themes of belonging and identity.

A fatherly figure and mentor to Alif, guiding him in religious and personal identity issues while understanding the unseen world.

A wealthy girl rooted in her elite status who has a significant impact on Alif's journey through her relationship and actions.

The main antagonist representing authority, who challenges Alif both online and in the real world, driving much of the conflict.

A royal family member and blogger whose loyalty to the digital world leads him to the awareness of the unseen jinn realm.

A jinn who verifies the authenticity of the Alf Yeom and maintains faith in humans, acting as a contact for Alif.

A jinn appearing as a cat, closely connected to Alif and Dina, who plays a role in Alif's development and interactions with the jinn.

A fellow gray hat hacker who assists Alif by offering shelter and guidance on internet surveillance and connections to jinn.

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Middle East • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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