46 pages • 1 hour read
Zeitoun
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Book Brief
368
Book • Nonfiction
New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s
2009
Adult
18+ years
840L
Super Short Summary
Zeitoun by Dave Eggers recounts Syrian American Abdulrahman Zeitoun's trials during and after Hurricane Katrina. Zeitoun stays in New Orleans to protect their property business while his wife, Kathy, and their children evacuate. Zeitoun uses a canoe to help others, but is unjustly arrested, facing harsh treatment that reveals systemic failures, paranoia, and religious intolerance. The book addresses arrest and detention-related trauma.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
81,522 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Zeitoun by Dave Eggers receives acclaim for its compelling narrative and vivid portrayal of post-Katrina New Orleans, spotlighting issues of justice and human rights. Critics highlight the book’s strong character development and thought-provoking themes. However, some reviews note pacing issues and question the book's factual reliability. Overall, it’s a powerful, though occasionally uneven, read.
Who Should Read Zeitoun?
A reader who would enjoy Zeitoun by Dave Eggers is likely drawn to powerful narratives of resilience and social justice. Fans of The Blind Side by Michael Lewis or What Is the What by Eggers himself will appreciate the gripping true story that explores human courage amidst the chaos of Hurricane Katrina.
81,522 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kathy Zeitoun
Kathy Zeitoun
Zeitoun's American wife who converted to Islam. She is strong-willed and protective of her family, and she wrestles with religious intolerance from others, including her own family.
Ahmad Zeitoun
Ahmad Zeitoun
Zeitoun’s older brother and a ship captain based in Malaga, Spain. He maintains a close relationship with Zeitoun, offering support and communication, especially during crisis events.
Mohammed Zeitoun
Mohammed Zeitoun
Zeitoun’s late brother, remembered for his accomplishments as a champion ocean swimmer. His legacy has a profound impact on Zeitoun’s motivations and actions.
Yuko
Yuko
Kathy's best friend, a Japanese American who converted to Islam first and introduced Kathy to the faith. She provides refuge to Kathy and her family during a crucial time.
Ahmaad
Ahmaad
Yuko’s Lebanese-American husband and Zeitoun’s first friend in the United States. He assists Kathy and her children by driving them to safety in Phoenix, Arizona.
368
Book • Nonfiction
New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s
2009
Adult
18+ years
840L
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