logo
undefined by undefined - Book Cover
pagesundefined by undefined - Book Cover
176
Reddit meter
all mentions

Behold the Dreamers

416 pages, 2017

Takeaways
Description

Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant living in Harlem, has come to the United States to provide a better life for himself, his wife, Neni, and their six-year-old son. In the fall of 2007, Jende can hardly believe his luck when he lands a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a senior banker at Lehman Brothers. 

Clark demands punctuality, discretion, and loyalty—and Jende is eager to please. Clark’s wife, Cindy, even offers Neni temporary work at the Edwardses’ summer home in the Hamptons. With these opportunities, Jende and Neni can at last gain a foothold in America and imagine a brighter future. However, the world of great power and privilege conceals troubling secrets.

The American Dream is Not Always What it Seems

Imbolo Mbue's Behold the Dreamers explores the concept of the American Dream and its reality. The book shows that achieving this dream is not always as glamorous or fulfilling as it seems. It's a great reminder to question societal norms and expectations.

The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Relationships

In Behold the Dreamers, you'll see how socioeconomic status can deeply affect relationships. The book explores the dynamics between the wealthy Edwards family and the immigrant Jonga family, showing how money and status can create power imbalances.

Immigration is a Complex Journey

Imbolo Mbue takes us on a journey through the complex world of immigration. The book highlights the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of immigrants, providing a deeper understanding of their experiences.

The Importance of Family and Home

The book emphasizes the importance of family and home. Despite the hardships they face, the Jonga family remains united and their bond strengthens. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of family and the comfort of home.

The Effects of the Financial Crisis

Behold the Dreamers provides a unique perspective on the 2008 financial crisis. It shows how the crisis affected both the wealthy and the poor, reminding us that economic downturns can have far-reaching impacts.

Quotes 5

A story that's beautifully told, Behold the Dreamers is a compelling, unforgettable novel.

Oprah WinfreyOprah Winfrey - Media executive, Actress

Behold the Dreamers is a dazzlingly accomplished debut, a novel that's so captivating it leaves you looking forward to what Mbue will write next.

Ron CharlesRon Charles - Book critic

Mbue's writing is warm and captivating; Behold the Dreamers is a deeply empathetic story about hope and resilience.

Kirkus ReviewsKirkus Reviews - Book review magazine

In Behold the Dreamers, Imbolo Mbue has written a novel with tremendous emotional power, illuminating the immigrant experience in America.

Publishers WeeklyPublishers Weekly - Book trade magazine

Behold the Dreamers is a poignant, beautifully crafted tale of two different families brought together by the fates of their individual members.

BooklistBooklist - Book review journal
Oprah WinfreyRon CharlesKirkus ReviewsPublishers WeeklyBooklist

Recommendations

1
authorOprah Winfrey, actor and entrepreneur and media personality and author, Recommending BestBooks

Oprah Winfrey

actorentrepreneurmedia personalityauthor