59 pages • 1 hour read
Omar El AkkadWhat Strange Paradise
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad follows Amir, a young Syrian refugee, whose life is divided between "Before" chapters detailing his flight from war-torn Syria and journey on a precarious smuggler boat, and "After" chapters focusing on his relationship with Vänna, a local girl who helps him navigate the hostile environment of the country where he lands. The novel highlights the struggles of migrants and the tensions in host countries.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Omar El Akkad's What Strange Paradise is lauded for its poignant depiction of the refugee crisis through the eyes of a child. Critics appreciate its compelling narrative and emotional depth, though some feel the plot is occasionally slow and overly symbolic. Overall, it is considered a powerful, timely novel that resonates deeply with readers.
Who Should Read What Strange Paradise?
Readers who are captivated by stories of human resilience and social justice will enjoy What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad. Fans of Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner and Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West will appreciate the poignant narrative and powerful exploration of the global refugee crisis.