December 5th, 2022

1. What is the book? 

          If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English

2. Who wrote it?

          Noor Naga

3. What is it about?

          It is about a couple in a caustic, toxic relationship in Cairo, several years after
          the Arab Spring, and the aftermath for both parties.

4. Why did I read it?

          Besides being drawn to the title, the structure of the novel got me to pick it
          up. It is divided into three parts. The first and second sections alternate
          viewpoints between the unnamed woman and man. In the first part, each
          perspective is prefaced with proverb-like questions. The climax occurs in the
          second segment, which is given context in part through footnotes. The final
          section, written as a play, somewhat deconstructs the rest of the text.

5. What do I think?

          If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English is more layered and complex than what I
          perceived at first glance. The short passages help to create a sense of the two
          characters fusing together occasionally.

          The woman is an Egyptian American living in Cairo, and Naga does a good job
          of articulating her thoughts as a cultural outsider with blood ties to the
          region.

          The novel is also uncomfortable at times, with glimpses into the man’s
          psychotic, misogynistic thoughts and actions. It also offers insights into his
          struggles with drug addiction and poverty in the aftermath of the Arab Spring.
          It is thought-provoking and, in my opinion, a worthwhile read!


Interested? Reserve your copy by clicking on the book cover image below: