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House of Sand and Fog

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999

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Book Brief

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Andre Dubus III

House of Sand and Fog

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

365

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1170L

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Super Short Summary

House of Sand and Fog by Andre Dubus III follows the intersecting lives of Massoud Behrani, an Iranian exile, and Kathy Nicolo, a recovering addict, as they battle for ownership of a bungalow in Corona, California. Told through their alternating perspectives, the novel explores themes of identity, displacement, and the consequences of personal actions, culminating in a dramatic confrontation over the property.

Melancholic

Dark

Mysterious

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

136,520 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Andre Dubus III's House of Sand and Fog is widely praised for its compelling narrative and deep character development. Reviewers highlight its exploration of complex themes like displacement and loss. However, some criticize its slow pacing and the unrelenting bleakness of the story. Overall, the book's emotional depth and realist portrayal have left a strong impact on readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read House of Sand and Fog?

Readers who enjoy character-driven, emotionally intense dramas with moral complexities will love House of Sand and Fog by Andre Dubus III. Similar in emotional depth and tragic narrative to The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates, this novel appeals to those who appreciate poignant, thought-provoking fiction.

4.0

136,520 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Massoud Behrani

A former Iranian air force colonel living in the United States as an exile who works various jobs to support his family, while maintaining a strong sense of pride and dedication to family honor.

A recovering addict struggling with personal setbacks, who becomes deeply involved in a property dispute over her inherited family home, impacting her stability and relationships.

A deputy sheriff who, driven by personal motivations and a sense of justice, becomes involved with Kathy and makes decisions that affect his career and personal life.

Massoud Behrani’s wife, who experiences significant challenges adapting to life in America and whose empathy and compassion influence her interactions with others.

Massoud and Nadereh’s teenage son, characterized by his innocence and strong moral compass, who contributes to the family’s efforts to adapt and succeed in their new environment.

Book Details
Pages

365

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1170L

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