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House of Sand and Fog
384 pages, 2011
The National Book Award finalist, Oprah Book Club pick, #1 New York Times bestseller, and basis for the Oscar-nominated motion picture.
A former colonel in the Iranian Air Force yearns to restore his family's dignity. A recovering alcoholic and addict down on her luck struggle to hold on to the one thing she has left. And her lover, a married cop, is driven to extremes to win her love.
In this masterpiece of American realism and Shakespearean consequence, Andre Dubus III's unforgettable characters―people with common flaws, looking for a small piece of ground to stand on―careen toward inevitable conflict, their tragedy painting a shockingly accurate picture of the country we live in today.
In House of Sand and Fog, Andre Dubus III explores the devastating effects of miscommunication. The story shows how a simple misunderstanding can lead to a tragic chain of events. It's a reminder to always double-check information and communicate clearly.
Dubus III paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by immigrants. The character Behrani, a former Iranian colonel, is forced to work menial jobs in America to maintain a semblance of his former life. This book will make you see the immigrant experience in a new light.
The book also delves into the harsh realities of addiction. Kathy, one of the main characters, battles alcoholism, showing how addiction can lead to self-destruction and impact those around you. It's a stark reminder of the importance of seeking help when needed.
One of the most striking aspects of House of Sand and Fog is the complexity of its characters. Dubus III doesn't shy away from showing their flaws, making them feel real and relatable. It's a great book to check out if you're interested in character-driven stories.
The book explores the dangerous path of obsession. Both Kathy and Behrani become obsessed with the house, leading to disastrous consequences. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting obsession take over your life.
Quotes 5
A heart-wrenching tale of loss and survival, House of Sand and Fog is a must-read.
Oprah Winfrey - TV host, philanthropistDubus writes with a relentless, raw, and gritty realism in House of Sand and Fog.
Stephen King - Horror fiction authorDubus' House of Sand and Fog is a haunting exploration of the American Dream gone awry.
Michiko Kakutani - Literary criticHouse of Sand and Fog is a gripping, tragic narrative that explores the depths of human despair and redemption.
John Updike - Pulitzer-winning authorDubus' House of Sand and Fog is a poignant, heartbreaking tale of two people fighting for their place in the world.
Margaret Atwood - Dystopian fiction author