Plot Summary

City of Thorns

Ben Rawlence
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City of Thorns

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2016

Book Brief

Ben Rawlence

City of Thorns

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Dadaab, Kenya • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In City of Thorns, Ben Rawlence shares the struggles of nine individuals living in Dadaab, the world’s largest refugee camp in Kenya, highlighting their experiences marked by political turmoil, social prejudices, and the dire conditions of the camp. The camp’s residents, primarily Somali refugees, face an ongoing battle for survival and freedom amidst fears of violence, exploitation, and restricted opportunities. Sensitive topics include sexual violence, psychological trauma, and substance abuse.

Informative

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

3,867 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

City of Thorns> adeptly spotlights the resilience of refugees in Kenya's Dadaab camp. Through vivid storytelling, Rawlence highlights their struggles and hopes. Critics praise its immersive, poignant narrative but note the harrowing accounts may be overwhelming for some readers. Overall, the book provides a crucial, humanizing perspective on the refugee crisis.

Who should read this

Who Should Read City of Thorns?

Readers interested in City of Thorns by Ben Rawlence would likely be drawn to gripping narratives about human resilience and geopolitical issues. Comparable to What is the What by Dave Eggers, this book appeals to those fascinated by refugee experiences and the complexities of humanitarian crises.

4.2

3,867 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Dadaab, Kenya • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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