Truthfully, I’m more of a thriller enthusiast, but Mohsin Hamid’s reputation inspired me to begin reading entries in his bibliography.
The Good: Fast-paced and beautifully written. In terms of the usage of English language, Hamid is a true representative of the cynical type. Every paragraph is written with artistic finesse. And you won’t get bored.
The Bad: That is, you won’t get bored of the writing style, but the plot is not only mediocre, it is overwhelmingly foreseeable. It’s actually like a post-modern version of a HUM TV serial, and that’s not necessarily a negative factor, but for those who favor mysteries over dramas would have guessed the ending after reading the initial 10-15 pages.
The Verdict: I recommend this to anyone who wants to experience a literary depiction of Pakistani society, but for those who are seeking an original story, look elsewhere.
