73 pages • 2 hours read
Exit West
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Book Brief
268
Novel • Fiction
Unnamed City • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
NC1660L
Super Short Summary
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid follows Nadia and Saeed, two individuals who meet in a war-torn, unnamed Middle Eastern city. As their relationship evolves amidst the escalating violence, they discover mystical doors that transport them to new locations, including a refugee camp in Greece, an apartment in London, and a shantytown in California, ultimately adapting to their changing environments and lives. This novel contains themes related to war, death, and displacement.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Emotional
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
161,319 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid is widely praised for its imaginative narrative and keen exploration of themes like migration and love, set against a backdrop of magical realism. Critics commend Hamid's eloquent prose and timely subject matter. Some readers, however, feel the character development is lacking and the storyline somewhat predictable. Despite this, the novel resonates strongly with contemporary social issues.
Who Should Read Exit West ?
A reader who enjoys Exit West by Mohsin Hamid would appreciate literary fiction that blends magical realism with poignant social commentary. Fans of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead and Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie will find its exploration of migration, identity, and human resilience compelling. Ideal for those who seek thought-provoking narratives with a touch of surrealism.
161,319 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Saeed
Saeed
As Nadia's boyfriend and one of the central figures, Saeed undergoes significant personal change, becoming more traditional and religious. He struggles to balance his connections to family, tradition, and his own evolving identity.
Saeed’s Parents
Saeed’s Parents
Referred to collectively, Saeed's mother and father represent a blend of traditional and independent values, providing a backdrop to Saeed's own journey and expanding the novel's depiction of tradition and identity.
The Girl in Mykonos
The Girl in Mykonos
A minor but pivotal character, she assists Nadia and Saeed in their travels, sparking self-discovery in Nadia as they move across new territories.
The Preacher’s Daughter
The Preacher’s Daughter
Saeed’s eventual partner, she captivates him with her beauty, piety, and dedication to social justice, potentially offering him new perspectives and personal growth.
268
Novel • Fiction
Unnamed City • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
NC1660L
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