Uniting the World Through Our Country Friends by Gary Shteyngart: A Review
Gary Shteyngart’s Our Country Friends is an exceptional work of fiction that offers a window into the lives of three generations of Soviet-Jewish immigrants in New York City. It’s a poignant, humorous, and deeply moving story that captures the experience of being an immigrant in America. The characters are vivid and complex, the writing is sharp and engaging, and the story is beautifully rendered. Our Country Friends will leave you with a deep appreciation for what it means to be an immigrant in this great country.
The novel follows the intertwined stories of three generations of Soviet-Jewish immigrants as they struggle to make a new life for themselves in America. Grandmother Lena struggles with her newfound freedom as she confronts her past, while her daughter Masha learns to navigate the complexities of American culture. And finally, Lena’s grandson Sasha discovers his own identity amidst the chaos of his parents’ clash between Soviet and American values. Through their experiences, we get a glimpse into the unique challenges faced by immigrants in this country.
Overall, Our Country Friends is an incredibly powerful novel that captures the struggles and joys of immigration with warmth and insight. Gary Shteyngart has crafted an unforgettable tale that will stay with readers long after they’ve finished it. If you’re looking for a book that celebrates resilience, empathy and family bonds then look no further than Our Country Friends!