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538
Novel • Fiction
Sudan • 1980s-1990s
2006
Adult
18+ years
870L
What Is the What by Dave Eggers is a “fictionalized autobiography” about Valentino Achak Deng, a boy displaced during the Second Sudanese War. Fleeing his village after an attack, Deng endures a perilous journey through hostile territories, eventually reaching refugee camps and later emigrating to the United States, where he faces new challenges while reflecting on his past and helping other Sudanese refugees. The book contains descriptions of violence, trauma, and war.
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Melancholic
Inspirational
87,524 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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What Is The What by Dave Eggers is a powerful and deeply moving novel that intricately blends fiction and autobiography. Critics praised its compelling narrative and the poignant portrayal of Sudanese refugee experiences. Some felt the pacing lagged in parts, but overall, the book's emotional depth and narrative strength resonated widely.
Readers who appreciate literary fiction and memoirs with a focus on social issues and resilience will enjoy What Is the What by Dave Eggers. Fans of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah will find this gripping tale of a Sudanese refugee's survival and hope particularly compelling.
87,524 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Achor Achor
Deng’s roommate in Atlanta and fellow Lost Boy, known for his survival skills and supportiveness, making his transition to American life smoother.
Tonya
A woman who plays a key role in the robbery of Deng’s apartment at the beginning of the story.
Powder
Tonya’s male accomplice in the robbery, responsible for physically assaulting Deng.
TV Boy/Michael
Tonya’s son, who is left to guard Deng during the robbery, and initially referred to as "TV Boy."
Deng Arou
Deng’s father, a successful businessman in their village before the war disrupted his life and business.
Moses
One of Deng’s close friends, known for his transformation into a physically fit soldier with the rebels before making it to America.
William K
Deng’s childhood friend from Marial Bai, who enjoys telling exaggerated stories.
Tabitha
Deng’s girlfriend whom he met in the Kakuma refugee camp, known for her special connection with him.
Dut Majok
A leader among the Lost Boys, instrumental in guiding them to safety and establishing a semblance of normalcy in the refugee camps.
Mary Williams
The founder of the Lost Boys Foundation in America and a close friend of Deng, who eventually steps down from her position.
Julian
A hospital receptionist and Iraq War veteran who checks Deng in and shows him some sympathy, though he has limited ability to assist.
538
Novel • Fiction
Sudan • 1980s-1990s
2006
Adult
18+ years
870L
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