Bookclub-In-A-Box Discusses the Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid: The Complete Package for Readers and Leaders

by Marilyn Herbert

The Reluctant Fundamentalist is more than the usual immigrant book of adaptation, struggle, and identity. It is the gripping tale of a young man who comes to America from Pakistan just prior to 9/11. The protagonist, Changez, is a Harvard educated businessman who works for a high-profile company that assesses the economic value of other companies. Changez is very successful in his chosen career, but then September 11 happens and everything changes. The setting is Lahore, Pakistan and the tale is told by one narrator, that of Changez, as he speaks to a nameless and faceless American tourist. The narration takes place in the span of a single evening, in fact, during a single meal, and Hamid manages to swing the reader on a pendulum of conflicting emotions and thoughts. The Bookclub-in-a-Box guide explores a number of important questions: who is this nameless American and why is he in Pakistan; how can one person have equal love for two countries that are at odds with each other in culture and outlook; how does such a person come to terms with his two worlds; and what is the significance of the word reluctant in the novels title, The Reluctant Fundamentalist. Every Bookclub-in-a-Box discussion guide also includes complete coverage of the themes and symbols, writing style and interesting background information on the novel and the author.

62 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

As an educator, school librarian, writer, book-talk presenter and facilitator, Marilyn loves to read and talk about books. Her enthusiasm for reading and sharing led her to unite her two favorite things: people and pages. In turn, this led to the creation of Bookclub-in-a-Box, the ultimate discussion companion for contemporary works of literary fiction. Marilyn is always looking for a great debate about books and welcomes all feedback.

Reviews

[M Rothenbuhler · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Pakistani's eye view of America that rang true even though the book is fiction. The narrator's voice is even and sure, and a certain character comes out between the lines. This character is neither the greatest guy you ever met or a horror show.

His story is simple although unusual.

I find a clear metaphorical collusion between Changez' love affair with Erica and his love affair with America. It is rather obvious and yet straightforward enough not to be heavy handed.

The narrative style of the Pakistani talking to a newly met American in a cafe is very well done.

[Sheila G · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very personal and intimate perspective on how the events and aftermath of 911 changed a young man's life, or did it really?

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting perspective on Moslems in US post Sept. 11. Very interesting format for the book.

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that will definately make you think. At times it made me uncomfortable. A good discussion book.

[Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superbly told story. Dreamy as a memoir. Loved the point of view. Thought provoking. Must read.