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White Teeth

464 pages, 2001

fiction

fiction

1382 books
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Description

Zadie Smith’s dazzling debut caught critics grasping for comparisons and deciding on everyone from Charles Dickens to Salman Rushdie to John Irving and Martin Amis. But the truth is that Zadie Smith’s voice is remarkably, fluently, and altogether wonderfully her own.

At the center of this invigorating novel are two unlikely friends, Archie Jones, and Samad Iqbal. Hapless veterans of World War II, Archie, Samad, and their families become agents of England’s irrevocable transformation

 A second marriage to Clara Bowden, a beautiful, albeit tooth-challenged, Jamaican half his age, quite literally gives Archie a second lease on life and produces Irie, a knowing child whose personality doesn’t quite match her name (Jamaican for “no problem”).

Samad’s late-in-life arranged marriage (he had to wait for his bride to be born) produces twin sons whose separate paths confound Iqbal’s every effort to direct them and a renewed if selective, submission to his Islamic faith.

Exploring Cultural Identity

Zadie Smith's White Teeth is a deep exploration of cultural identity. It's a fascinating look into how our backgrounds shape us, and how we navigate the complexities of a multicultural society. It's a must-read if you're interested in understanding the dynamics of culture and identity.

Understanding the Impact of History

In White Teeth, Smith shows us how history impacts our present and future. The characters' pasts are intertwined with their present lives, showing us that we can't escape our history. It's a great book to check out if you want to see how history can shape individuals and communities.

The Power of Family Ties

Family relationships are at the heart of White Teeth. Smith beautifully portrays the love, conflict, and complexities that exist within families. If you're interested in exploring the dynamics of family relationships, this book is for you.

The Struggles of Immigrant Life

White Teeth gives us a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of immigrant life. It's a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of immigrants. If you want to understand the immigrant experience, you should definitely read this book.

The Influence of Religion and Faith

Religion and faith play a significant role in White Teeth. Smith explores how these beliefs can both unite and divide us. It's a thought-provoking book that encourages us to dig deeper into the role of religion in our lives.

Quotes 3

Zadie Smith's remarkable debut novel, 'White Teeth', is a revelation of the possibilities of the written word.

Salman RushdieSalman Rushdie - British Indian novelist

Smith's 'White Teeth' is a novel of impressive scope, humor, and humanity.

Joyce Carol OatesJoyce Carol Oates - American writer

'White Teeth' is a delightfully engaging novel that dances with a light, witty touch over some weighty topics.

Margaret AtwoodMargaret Atwood - Canadian poet
Salman RushdieJoyce Carol OatesMargaret Atwood

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