The True American
The True American
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Brief
336
Book • Nonfiction
Texas • 2000s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The True American by Anand Giridharadas narrates the story of Rais Bhuiyan, an American of Bengali descent who survived a post-9/11 hate crime in Texas and later forgave his attacker, Mark Stroman, a white supremacist. Bhuiyan's journey of survival, recovery, and forgiveness contrasts with Stroman's path from hate to redemption, painting a complex portrait of post-9/11 America. The book includes detailed descriptions of violence and hate crimes.
Informative
Emotional
Inspirational
Hopeful
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,960 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anand Giridharadas' The True American explores themes of redemption and justice through the intertwined lives of a hate crime victim and his attacker. Critics praise its compelling narrative and insightful social commentary. However, some note that the pacing may lag and the exploration of certain themes feels surface-level. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The True American?
A reader who enjoys The True American by Anand Giridharadas would likely be interested in themes of immigration, justice, and forgiveness, particularly in post-9/11 America. Fans of Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson would find this compelling as it combines social critique with a personal narrative of redemption and transformation.
1,960 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Book • Nonfiction
Texas • 2000s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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