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54 pages 1 hour read

The Illegal

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Lawrence Hill

The Illegal

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Afric Town • 2010s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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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

3.9

13,960 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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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 this

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.

3.9

13,960 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Keita Ali

Keita Ali is a young Black man from Zantoroland, a fictional postcolonial nation. He is a Christian, a devoted son, and a selfless runner who uses his talent to protect himself and save his sister’s life.

Lula is the madam of a brothel involved in human trafficking, using the poor and undocumented to grow her empire. She possesses a powerful secret that makes her vulnerable, as she is not a citizen of Freedom State.

Viola is a Black, gay, and disabled writer using her talents to expose corruption in Freedom State and Zantoroland. Her strength and bravery are exemplified by her research and encounters, showcasing the power of marginalized voices.

Rocco Calder, the prime minister of immigration, is a former businessman who initially espouses racist ideas but eventually comes to understand and aid refugees like Keita.

Candace Freixa, a Black female police officer from AfricTown, battles systemic racism with strength and competence. She is a protector and savior, aiding Keita in his struggles.

John Falconer is a 15-year-old boy living in AfricTown, the first Black student at Clarkson Academy for the Gifted. Through his documentary, he exposes the wrongdoing of the Freedom State government.

Ivernia Beech is an elderly white woman and a liberal ally to undocumented immigrants. Despite her government treating her poorly, she fights injustice quietly and powerfully.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Afric Town • 2010s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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