Plot Summary

Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio

Amara Lakhous
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Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006

Book Brief

Amara Lakhous

Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rome, Italy • Contemporary

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio by Amara Lakhous, a murder mystery unravels in a diverse Roman apartment building when an unpopular resident, The Gladiator, is found dead in the elevator. Through conflicting testimonies from twelve biased tenants, themes of immigration, bias, and identity emerge, complicating the investigation and leaving both police and readers uncertain of who the true culprit is. The perpetrator regularly sexually assaulted a neighbor who lacked proper documentation.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Humorous

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.9

3,792 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio by Amara Lakhous offers a thought-provoking narrative on multiculturalism, showcasing diverse voices in a Roman apartment building. Praised for its humor and sharp social commentary, the novel's multiple perspectives may confuse some readers. Overall, it is an engaging commentary on cultural clashes and human understanding.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio?

Readers who appreciate the intricate dynamics of multicultural societies and enjoy novels like Zadie Smith's White Teeth or Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake will find Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio by Amara Lakhous compelling. It explores identity, prejudice, and coexistence within a diverse European context.

3.9

3,792 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Amara Lakhous, the author of Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio, is known for blending humor with serious social commentary, which brings a unique perspective to issues of immigration and multiculturalism in Italy.

The novel received the prestigious Flaiano Prize in Italy, recognizing its impact and the way it portrays the complexities of modern urban life through a mosaic of diverse voices.

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Lakhous wrote the novel originally in both Arabic and Italian, showcasing his versatility and highlighting the multicultural fabric of contemporary Italy.

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Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rome, Italy • Contemporary

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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