A review by savvylit
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Exit West utilizes magical realism to discuss very weighty topics such as living in active battle zones, refugee resettlement, strict Islamic cultural norms, and xenophobia. Hamid deftly imbues Exit West with the twin stresses of a relationship's honeymoon period and civil war. New relationships are difficult enough as is but Nadia & Saeed's young love faces incredible obstacles. As seems befitting of sudden violent skirmishes, Nadia and Saeed are forced to quickly adapt to drastic loss. Loss of paychecks, food, electricity, loved ones... It takes hardly any time for their lives to become incredibly narrowed by war. But the next step of escaping to a resentful, wealthy region is not an easy task either. Ultimately, this is a gorgeously written book about human resiliency, sacrifice, and keeping your promises no matter what happens.
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