A review by knkoch
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

emotional hopeful mysterious slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

Great proof that sci-fi doesn't have to be elaborate or ornate to make a deep impact. In this case, one seemingly small sci-fi element has an immensely freeing effect, providing new insight into the world we currently live in, and the one we may not be far from. I found this a very thoughtful commentary on borders, the global North and South, inequity, and, crucially, what positive forms of new world order could be possible. This reminded me of Sea of Tranquility and Parable of the Sower. 

I wasn't as drawn in by the two central characters of this story as I wished; I found the ideas more interesting and developed. But the relationship that developed was quite tender and gentle, jarring when interrupted by violence as the plot progressed. 
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