How often do you come across books where you had no expectations but it turns out to be one of the best reads.
Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist, which was shortlisted for Man Booker Prize 2007 is one such book. .
It is deeply proactive and rich in irony and intelligence. It is one of the best books I’ve read and something that kept me wondering why I didn’t read it all this while.
“I smiled slightly when I saw the 9/11 attacks” said our Pakistani-American protagonist in one of the scenes that perfectly defines how this book is brave and intellectual. It revolves around the themes of nationalism, world politics, capitalism, love, betrayal, aspirations, and everything in between.
It provokes your moral dilemma and subconscious in the most effortless way. Well, that’s what they say, it takes a lot of effort to sound effortless.
Even though it deals with these complex subjects, it’s relatively a quick and easy read and the thoughts linger with you for a long time one you’re done reading.
Bits of brilliance for the reluctant fundamentalist:
– When the twin towers of New York’s World Trade Centre collapsed, I smiled. Yes, despicable as it may sound, my initial reaction was to be remarkably pleased.
– So when I tell you I was pleased with the slaughter of thousands of innocents, I do so with a profound sense of perplexity.
– (While describing sadness and a sense of tension through the external environment) A peculiar odour lingered in the air; the smouldering wreckage downtown made its way into our lungs.
– Thus clad in my armour of denial
– Things might have worked out rather differently if I had turned around; then again, things might have worked out exactly the same.
– The ruins proclaim the building was beautiful.
If you love Khaled Hosseini, you’re sure to love this one as well. It’s similar yet very different to his writing style; so simple yet so profound.
The book has been adapted into a movie that is available on Netflix.
