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Behold the Dreamers summary
Brief summary
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue is a captivating novel that follows the lives of two families in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis. It delves into the complexities of immigration, race, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
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Behold the Dreamers
Summary of key ideas
Struggles and Aspirations of Immigrants in America
In Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue, we are introduced to Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant who moves to New York City with his wife Neni and their son, in the pursuit of the American Dream. Jende secures a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a senior executive at Lehman Brothers, while Neni works as a housekeeper for the Edwards family. The Jongas' lives are filled with hope and aspirations, but soon reality begins to set in.
As the story unfolds, we witness the 2008 financial crisis and the subsequent collapse of Lehman Brothers, which drastically affects the lives of both the Jongas and the Edwards. Jende loses his job, and the family is faced with the possibility of being deported back to Cameroon. Neni, who is studying to become a pharmacist, faces visa issues, forcing her to make difficult decisions about her future and her family's.
Class Struggles and Ethical Dilemmas
Through the lens of the Jongas' experiences, the novel paints a vivid picture of the class struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by immigrants and the working class during the financial crisis. We see the stark contrast between the lives of the ultrarich Edwards family and the Jongas, who are struggling to make ends meet. Despite their differences, the novel also highlights the shared human experiences and the complexities of relationships.
Clark Edwards, a successful Wall Street executive, is portrayed as a man who has everything, yet is deeply unhappy. His wife, Cindy, grapples with her husband's infidelity and the loss of her lifestyle. In contrast, the Jongas, who have much less, find happiness in their family and the simple pleasures of life. The novel thus critiques the materialistic nature of the American Dream and questions what it means to truly 'succeed'.
Immigrant Identity and the Pursuit of Happiness
As the Jongas navigate their immigrant identity and the harsh realities of the American system, they are confronted with difficult choices. Jende, for instance, is faced with the moral dilemma of keeping a secret about Clark's illegal activities in exchange for a green card. Neni, on the other hand, must decide whether to return to Cameroon to fulfill her dreams or stay in the U.S. to support her family.
In the end, Behold the Dreamers is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience and the pursuit of happiness. It challenges the notion of the American Dream as a one-size-fits-all concept and instead presents it as a deeply personal, multifaceted aspiration. The novel ends on an ambiguous note, leaving the reader with the same uncertainties and hopes that the Jongas face as they continue to chase their dreams in America.
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What is Behold the Dreamers about?
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue is a powerful novel that delves into the lives of two families in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis. It explores themes of immigration, race, class, and the pursuit of the American Dream, offering a thought-provoking and poignant commentary on the realities of contemporary society.
Behold the Dreamers Review
Behold the Dreamers (2016) is a thought-provoking novel shedding light on the American Dream through the lives of two families in New York. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Portrays a complex story of immigration challenges and aspirations, offering a deep dive into the realities faced by families seeking a better life.
- Explores themes of class divide and social mobility with nuance, prompting reflection on the pursuit of happiness in a changing world.
- With its engaging plot twists and relatable characters, it grips readers with its exploration of ambition and sacrifice in pursuit of the American Dream.
Who should read Behold the Dreamers?
Readers who are interested in exploring the complexities of the American Dream and immigration
Individuals who enjoy character-driven stories with richly developed protagonists
Those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives that tackle social and economic issues
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Behold the Dreamers FAQs
What is the main message of Behold the Dreamers?
The main message of Behold the Dreamers revolves around the pursuit of the American Dream and the complexities of immigration and class divide.
How long does it take to read Behold the Dreamers?
Reading Behold the Dreamers takes a few hours. 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 worth reading for its insightful exploration of timely issues with compelling storytelling.
Who is the author of Behold the Dreamers?
Imbolo Mbue is the author of Behold the Dreamers.
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