57 pages • 1 hour read
The Other Americans
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Book Brief
300
Novel • Fiction
California Desert Town • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Other Americans by Laila Lalami, musician Nora Guerraoui returns to her California hometown after her father, Driss, is killed in a hit-and-run accident. As she grieves, reconnects with former schoolmate Jeremy Gorecki, and discovers unsettling family secrets, the perspectives of various townspeople reveal underlying tensions related to race, identity, and guilt. The book explores sensitive themes including racial violence and immigration struggles.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
20,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Laila Lalami's The Other Americans is widely praised for its intricate weaving of multiple perspectives, shedding light on contemporary America through a gripping mystery. Reviewers appreciate its character depth and social commentary. Some critiques highlight a slow pace and occasional predictability. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking, rich narrative.
Who Should Read The Other Americans?
Readers who appreciate complex narratives about identity, family, and immigrant experiences will enjoy The Other Americans by Laila Lalami. Fans of Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Americanah will find similar themes of cultural tension and personal discovery.
20,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
300
Novel • Fiction
California Desert Town • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
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