What Strange Paradise

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Omar El Akkad

Literature

Feb 16, 2023

Ausma Zehanat Khan described this "gut-punch, heart-wound of a book" about a child refugee fleeing war-torn Syria in Denver Public Library's third Battle of the Books in January 2023. What happens when the body of a young boy washes up on the shore of a neighboring country? Is it right or wrong to give aid to the drowning (or water to refugees requesting asylum)? This story about a friendship between two young souls, tells of the toughness and resilience of children coupled with their unquestioning openheartedness and calls into question what, exactly is "right" and what is just. The ending will stun you.

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James Charles

Aug 10, 2023

At first glance I expected this book to be another throwaway classic. As in something that has the repertoire and authenticity of an Adichie or Achebe but would turn out to have a plot that whilst has good characters is ultimately forgettable. Something I find with a myriad of books actually, besides the all-time classics such as Harry Potter and Alice and Wonderland. I can honestly say though that this novel rocked me to my core in ways reading has never been able to. Even though it's a pretty recent book - I think it was released 2021 - it feels like it's up there in the classics. The characters are rich, the twin narrative is so teasing in the way it alternates, and honestly the way each chapter feels significant and adds to the greater picture is mesmerizing. It's just a shame that whenever I see any synopsis for the book I instantly get turned off. I can't explain why but it was only when I engaged with this book and stopped trying to find out about it from the outside that I really found myself lost. Oh, but when you do reach the end, make sure you understand the ending, because it is a kicker. Seriously though give the book a go. It might take a few chapters to warm up, but it is brutal, intense, and really has something to say about the inhumanity of the West.

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