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Exit West
256 pages, 2018
Nearly 20 years after the Syrian Civil War began, millions of people have lost their lives and millions more have been forced to flee their homes. Nadia and Saeed, a young couple in this war-torn city, are in love. They struggle to reunite with each other despite the hostilities around them.
When they attempt to leave Syria—or "exit west," as they call it—they realize that once they cross the border into Turkey, they will have to travel through mountains where people are hunted and killed for food by desperate refugees. It will be hard to stay together in this inhuman world.
In Exit West, Mohsin Hamid beautifully explores the power of love and human connection. The main characters, Nadia and Saeed, find solace in each other amidst the chaos of their war-torn city. Their relationship is a testament to the strength of human bonds in the face of adversity.
The book gives us a raw and honest look into the realities of migration. It's not just about moving from one place to another, but also about the emotional and psychological toll it takes on individuals. It's a journey that changes people, often in ways they never expected.
Exit West paints a vivid picture of how war can drastically change a city and its people. It's a stark reminder of the devastating effects of conflict, and how it can strip away the normalcy of life in an instant.
What does 'home' really mean? This is a question that the book encourages us to ponder. For Nadia and Saeed, home is not just a physical place, but a state of being. It's about finding comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging.
In a unique twist, Hamid uses magical doors as a metaphor for opportunities and change. These doors, which transport people to different parts of the world, symbolize the unpredictability of life and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
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Exit West is a thought-provoking read that explores the realities of migration and the human spirit's resilience.
Barack Obama - 44th U.S. PresidentMohsin Hamid's Exit West is a profound, moving novel that redefines the way we perceive global migration.
Zadie Smith - Acclaimed British AuthorExit West is a compelling narrative that beautifully captures the essence of our contemporary world.
Salman Rushdie - Booker Prize WinnerExit West is a poignant tale of love and loss, set against the backdrop of a world in flux.
Kamila Shamsie - Women's Prize WinnerExit West is a powerful, evocative novel that brings the global refugee crisis into sharp focus.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-FounderRecommendations
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Exit West found in libraries
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