New book release by Mohsin Hamid…..

I must say that there are few authors in recent times whose books have captured my interest in the way Mohsin Hamid has managed. My introduction to this author came via the now and quite rightly, international bestseller The Reluctant Fundamentalist. A story which gave weight to the argument for trying to understand the reasons behind those who become extremists and ultimately, killers. It is a beautifully crafted book and whilst his others don’t quite reach those heights he has earned his place as a writer of considerable renown.

So I am looking forward to getting my hands on a copy of this, his latest book. Exit West continues in Hamid’s tradition of choosing a subject matter which is relevant and divisive. This then is a love story set against the backdrop of war and the refugee crisis which shows no sign of abating. Set in an unnamed Middle Eastern city one can expect Hamid to concentrate on the human cost of conflict and the movement of people across continents searching for a solution and a better life. It is a subject which divides opinion, it is certainly one which isn’t fully understood and one, I would suggest, near impossible to resolve. Despite the opinions there can be no doubt that the human cost has been horrific to witness, be it economic migrants or refugees fleeing a war zone, a human life lost to the hope of a better life elsewhere is a tragedy.

Whatever one’s individual politics or opinion on subjects such as the migration of people or the rise in fundamentalism, Hamid’s voice is one of reason and intelligence. His books, like those of the late John Berger, offer the reader an opportunity to take a fresh look, to perhaps reconsider or at the very least, engage in that which affects us all.

He is an author very much of our time and I feel sure this new release will not disappoint.

Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

Published by Hamish Hamilton