58 pages • 1 hour read
Ayad AkhtarAmerican Dervish
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Ayad Akhtar's American Dervish, the protagonist, Hayat Shah, recounts his experiences as a Pakistani-American boy in 1980s Milwaukee. When his mother's friend Mina moves in, he becomes infatuated with her and learns about Islam. Mina falls in love with a Jewish man named Nathan, leading to tensions within their community and family. Hayat's actions, driven by his newfound religious fervor, result in heartbreak and lasting consequences. The novel explores themes of religious identity, family conflict, and the complexities of love. This book includes depictions of intimate partner violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Ayad Akhtar's American Dervish is widely praised for its compelling portrayal of a young Pakistani-American grappling with faith and identity. While the narrative's emotional depth and cultural insights earn acclaim, some critiques focus on its uneven pacing and predictable plot twists. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that tackles complex themes with sensitivity.
Who Should Read American Dervish?
Fans of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini and A Thousand Splendid Suns will appreciate American Dervish by Ayad Akhtar. This reader enjoys complex cultural narratives, coming-of-age stories, and exploring themes of faith, identity, and family within the context of immigrant experiences.