Books Like...

The Meursault Investigation by Kamel Daoud is a response to Albert Camus' The Stranger, giving a name and family to the previously unnamed Arab victim, Musa. The story is narrated by Musa's brother, Harun, who delves into his life haunted by his brother's murder and the aftermath, reflecting on themes of colonialism, identity, and the absurdity of life. Daoud's writing style intertwines with Camus' work, offering a perspective on Algeria's post-colonial struggles and the impact of historical changes on the interpretation of The Stranger.

"The First Man" by Albert Camus is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the life of the main character, Jacques Cormery, as he embarks on a journey to uncover details about his deceased father. Set against the backdrop of poverty and family struggles, the narrative captures Jacques' upbringing, his education, and his quest for self-discovery. The writing style is described as melancholy yet delightful, with a focus on the protagonist's personal growth and introspection.

'Caligula' by Albert Camus is a powerful story of abuse of power, focusing on the Roman Emperor Caligula who is torn by the death of his sister and lover, Drusilla. In response to her death, Caligula begins a reign of terror against the Roman citizens, showcasing his brutality, bloodthirstiness, and sadism. The play delves into Caligula's feelings of insecurity, tendency towards violence, and his distorted notion of freedom, ultimately leading to his desire for the impossible and his projection of agony onto those around him. Camus' writing is described as modern, contemporary, and flowing, aiming right into the heart and mind of the reader with ruthless precision.

'In the Country of Men' by Hisham Matar is a poignant and vividly told story set in late 1970s Libya, following the experiences of a nine-year-old boy named Suleiman. Caught up in a world beyond his understanding, Suleiman witnesses the political intrigue and turmoil that threatens his family, including his father's disappearance and his mother's struggles. The narrative captures the confusion and turmoil of a child unable to comprehend the brutality and betrayal that permeate his life, all set against the backdrop of Gaddafi's repressive regime.

Matar skillfully portrays the oppressive atmosphere of Qaddafi's Libya through the eyes of a child narrator, highlighting the sense of menace that suffuses ordinary life. The story delves into themes of betrayal, family ties, and the impact of living under a dictatorial regime, offering a profound exploration of the complexities of loyalty and survival in a totalitarian society.

Secret Son by Laila Lalami is a poignant novel that follows the life of Youssef El Mekki, a young man from the slums of Casablanca who discovers shocking details about his real father, a wealthy industrialist. The book delves into themes of inequality, corruption, and the allure of extremism as Youssef navigates between his old life of poverty and his newfound world of wealth and status. The narrative explores the complex relationships between family members and friends, as well as the societal pressures and personal choices that shape Youssef's journey.

Laila Lalami's writing style in Secret Son is described as beautifully written, thought-provoking, and genuinely moving. The novel presents a human story that offers insights into the harsh realities faced by many individuals, while also highlighting the struggles of the characters in their pursuit of happiness, success, and identity.

The Fall by Albert Camus is a book-length soliloquy by a French judge penitent in an Amsterdam bar, confessing to a fellow Frenchman his fall from grace due to growing disenchantment with himself and society. The narrative delves deep into themes of guilt, hypocrisy, selflessness, and the realization of one's true nature, providing a powerful treatise on judgment, truth, and humanity. Through a series of monologues, the protagonist's transformation from a self-absorbed lawyer to a reflective recluse is explored, revealing the dark truths about human nature and the struggle with one's own morality.

Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's 'The River Between' is a powerful novel that delves into the conflicts brought about by colonialism. The story is set in a Gigukuyu country where the presence of the white man creates division within communities, eroding traditions and sparking tension between villages. The narrative follows the clash between the Christian faction led by Joshua, who vehemently opposes cultural traditions, and the group led by Kaboni, advocating for the preservation of their heritage. Caught in the middle is Waiykami, who attempts to bridge the gap between the two opposing ideologies, seeking unity amidst the turmoil of conflicting beliefs and values.

The book presents a riveting narration of cultural turmoil, exploring themes of tradition, modernization, and the impact of education on societal conflicts. Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's writing style is described as clear, direct, and thought-provoking, offering a profound insight into the struggles faced by the characters as they navigate the complexities of colonial influence and cultural identity.

'Arabian Nights and Days' by Naguib Mahfouz is a collection of interwoven stories that delve into the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas. The book presents a world where evil djinnis manipulate and corrupt humans, leading them astray from righteous behavior. The characters in the novel face temptations, self-struggles, and conflicts related to corruption, self-righteousness, lust, and greed. The plot converges at the Cafe of the Emirs, where characters are tempted to make choices that can lead to their destruction or bliss, showcasing the dark sides of society and human behavior.

Mahfouz's writing style is described as immersive and captivating, with the ability to transport readers into the heart of the story. Through his intricate storytelling, Mahfouz weaves a complex narrative that challenges readers to reflect on moral weight and conscious import through philosophical vignettes. The book deviates from traditional Arabian Nights tales, presenting familiar characters in new light and exploring themes of corruption, redemption, and moral ambiguity.

'The Plague' by Albert Camus revolves around the town of Oran in the 1940s dealing with a sudden plague outbreak, leading to quarantine and isolation from the rest of society. The story focuses on how individuals cope with the challenges of being cut off from their loved ones, the slow progression of the disease, and the impact it has on human relationships. Camus' writing style captures the existential struggles of the characters and delves into philosophical themes of human nature, suffering, and societal responses to crises.