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A review by gralicia
If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English by Noor Naga
challenging
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This was really engaging, I flew through it in a day. There was heavy content, but I enjoyed the switch in writing style between parts 1 and 2.
I also enjoyed the two perspectives, I thought they complimented each other well without too much overlap or superfluous details.
Part 3 really made me think more seriously about the characters, particularly the boy from Shobrakheit, as it positioned the book as a memoir rather than fiction. I don't usually love character-as-writer tropes, but this workshop discussion gave unique insight and perspective to the writing process and the story. The allusions to a discarded Part 3 were interesting.
I don't know yet how much of this story is true. I'm not sure that I will look into it, I prefer the ambiguity in this instance.
I also enjoyed the two perspectives, I thought they complimented each other well without too much overlap or superfluous details.
Part 3 really made me think more seriously about the characters, particularly the boy from Shobrakheit, as it positioned the book as a memoir rather than fiction. I don't usually love character-as-writer tropes, but this workshop discussion gave unique insight and perspective to the writing process and the story. The allusions to a discarded Part 3 were interesting.
I don't know yet how much of this story is true. I'm not sure that I will look into it, I prefer the ambiguity in this instance.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Physical abuse, Misogyny, Drug abuse, Classism, Stalking, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, and Domestic abuse
Moderate: War, Toxic relationship, Addiction, Drug use, Fatphobia, Incest, Gaslighting, and Death