54 pages • 1 hour read
The Illegal
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Book Brief
416
Novel • Fiction
Afric Town • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Illegal, a young undocumented marathon runner named Keita Ali flees a dictatorship in Zantoroland to save his sister and himself by competing in races in Freedom State, where he is considered "illegal." The novel uses satire and multiple perspectives to question the nature of citizenship and explore complex political themes. Topics include state violence and human trafficking.
Suspenseful
Emotional
Heartwarming
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
13,960 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lawrence Hill’s The Illegal has garnered acclaim for its gripping narrative and timely exploration of immigration and refugees. Reviewers praise its well-developed characters and immersive storytelling. However, some critique the pacing and predictability of certain plot elements. Overall, it is seen as a powerful, relevant read that compassionately tackles current social issues.
Who Should Read The Illegal?
Readers who would enjoy The Illegal by Lawrence Hill are likely fans of thought-provoking, socially conscious fiction. They appreciate stories of resilience and endurance against systemic injustices. Comparable to books like The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue, such readers seek narratives that address immigration, identity, and human rights.
13,960 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
416
Novel • Fiction
Afric Town • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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