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Behold the Dreamers
416 pages, 2017
fiction
1382 booksJende 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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A story that's beautifully told, Behold the Dreamers is a compelling, unforgettable novel.
Oprah Winfrey - Media executive, ActressBehold 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 Charles - Book criticMbue's writing is warm and captivating; Behold the Dreamers is a deeply empathetic story about hope and resilience.
Kirkus Reviews - Book review magazineIn Behold the Dreamers, Imbolo Mbue has written a novel with tremendous emotional power, illuminating the immigrant experience in America.
Publishers Weekly - Book trade magazineBehold the Dreamers is a poignant, beautifully crafted tale of two different families brought together by the fates of their individual members.
Booklist - Book review journal