The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid


In The Reluctant Fundamentalist, Mohsin Hamid delves into the attitudes and prejudices unleashed after September 11, 2001 and their results.  As Changez, a Pakistani in Pakistan, tells his story of his time in America before and after September 11th to an uncomfortable American, his person experience demonstrates the changes life circumstances and tradegies can bring to one's life.  It also demonstrates that the problems one faces don't disappear in the face of tragedy.  As the reader sympathizes with Changez's job troubles, relationship issues, identity crisis, and longing for his home country questions arise about his intentions creating a sense of unease and doubt because Changez is truly likeable.  Hamid weaves a tale that will draw the reader into the story, create uncomfortable moments of recognition, and garner a greater understanding that at the end of the day people have more in common than not.  Through it all, The Reluctant Fundamentalist is written in a fashion that will leave the reader wanting to discuss it with someone who has also read it.

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