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Behold the Dreamers summary
Brief summary
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue is a powerful novel that follows the lives of a Cameroonian immigrant family in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis. It explores themes of race, class, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
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Behold the Dreamers
Summary of key ideas
Immigration, Aspirations, and Disillusionment
In Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue, we follow the lives of two families, the Jongas and the Edwards, and their intertwined destinies in New York City. Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant, secures a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a senior executive at Lehman Brothers. His wife, Neni, also an immigrant, works hard to earn a pharmacy degree, hoping to secure a better future for their family.
As the story progresses, the Jongas' aspirations clash with the reality of their lives in America. The Edwards, on the other hand, represent the epitome of the American Dream, living in luxury, but their marriage is strained, and their lifestyle is built on a fragile foundation. As the 2008 financial crisis hits, Lehman Brothers collapses, and both families are plunged into uncertainty.
Struggles and Sacrifices
With Jende losing his job, the Jongas' precarious immigration status is at risk, and Neni's dream of completing her education and becoming a pharmacist seems unattainable. Clark's personal and professional life falls apart, and his wife, Cindy, is forced to confront the harsh realities of their financial ruin. The stark contrast between the Jongas' modest existence and the Edwards' opulent lifestyle highlights the harsh realities of the American Dream.
Despite their struggles, the Jongas continue to fight for their place in America. Neni makes a difficult choice to ensure her son's future, and Jende takes on multiple jobs to support his family. The Edwards, on the other hand, grapple with their newfound poverty, and their marriage reaches a breaking point. Both families are forced to reevaluate their beliefs and expectations, and the immigrant experience is portrayed as a journey marked by resilience and sacrifice.
The Complexity of the American Dream
As the novel progresses, it delves deeper into the complexities of the American Dream. Mbue paints a stark picture of the stark contrast between the rich and the poor, the immigrants and the natives, and the promises and realities of life in America. She highlights how the pursuit of this dream often comes at a great cost, especially for immigrants, who must navigate a foreign land while battling poverty, discrimination, and legal challenges.
Ultimately, Behold the Dreamers is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the harsh realities that often accompany it. Mbue's characters are authentic, their struggles palpable, and their resilience inspiring. The novel ends with the Jongas' future in limbo, leaving us to ponder the true nature of the American Dream and the sacrifices it demands.
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What is Behold the Dreamers about?
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of two families in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis. It explores the complexities of immigration, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the impact of economic upheaval on individuals from different walks of life. Through rich storytelling and compelling characters, Mbue offers a thought-provoking commentary on the pursuit of happiness and the realities of achieving it.
Behold the Dreamers Review
Behold the Dreamers (2016) tells the story of the Jonga family's pursuit of the American Dream during the financial crisis. Here's why this book is a worthy read:
- The exploration of immigration challenges and class divide offers a thought-provoking look at society's complexities.
- Through the characters' experiences, the book sheds light on struggles for stability and identity in a changing world.
- Its emotional depth and multifaceted characters ensure the narrative is engaging and far from dull.
Who should read Behold the Dreamers?
Readers who are interested in exploring the immigrant experience in America
Those who enjoy character-driven stories with rich and complex relationships
Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the 2008 financial crisis on everyday people
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Behold the Dreamers FAQs
What is the main message of Behold the Dreamers?
The main message of Behold the Dreamers is a poignant exploration of the American Dream and the complexities of immigration.
How long does it take to read Behold the Dreamers?
Reading Behold the Dreamers takes a few hours, while the Blinkist summary can be read in around 15 minutes.
Is Behold the Dreamers a good book? Is it worth reading?
Behold the Dreamers is a compelling read that sheds light on immigration and class issues, making it a worthwhile book to explore.
Who is the author of Behold the Dreamers?
The author of Behold the Dreamers is Imbolo Mbue.
What to read after Behold the Dreamers?
If you're wondering what to read next after Behold the Dreamers, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz