The Reluctant Fundamentalist: Book Review

The internationally best-selling novel "The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is beautifully written by Pakistani author Mohsin Hamid. It has received acclaim from both critics and readers for its brilliance. The story unfolds through a series of events and memories that draw you in, making your curiosity grow with every turn of the page.

The narrator, who calls himself Changez, is a citizen of Lahore, Pakistan, and comes from a middle-class family. At the age of 16, he was admitted to Princeton University in the United States, where he studied Finance and Accounting, fulfilling his dream. He graduated at 22 and secured a position at a reputable supply chain firm in the U.S.

Throughout the narrative, Changez recounts his experience of falling in love with an American girl named Erica, who became an integral part of his life. He also reflects on the impact of significant events, such as the World Trade Center attacks, as well as the discrimination and insecurity he felt as a Pakistani. Erica's struggles with mental health, particularly following the loss of her previous boyfriend, deeply affected Changez and contributed to his insecurity.

The tensions between India and Pakistan, especially following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, heightened Changez's concerns for his family back home. 

The story is brilliantly framed by a conversation that Changez has with an American tourist in Anarkali, Lahore, starting with the phrase: “Excuse me, sir, but may I be of assistance? Ah, I see I have alarmed you. Do not be frightened by my beard. I am a lover of America.” Through sharing his experiences over tea, Changez connects with the tourist.

While Changez initially enjoys a comfortable life in America, with financial security and a loving relationship, everything changes when he becomes more aware of the hardships facing his home country and the brutalities perpetrated by Americans abroad. These realizations begin to impact his life in the U.S., ultimately leading him to leave the country. After resigning from his job, he tries to say goodbye to Erica, but when he visits her, he discovers she has committed suicide since their last meeting.

Upon returning to Pakistan, Changez takes up a position as a university professor and starts campaigns against war and conflict between India and Pakistan. His activism gains momentum, but he soon realizes that international agencies and governments are trying to hinder his efforts. Facing threats and hostilities, he eventually decides to stop his activism and withdraw into a quieter, simpler life as an ordinary citizen of Pakistan.