Here Is a Body

In "Here Is A Body," Abdel Aziz explores the themes of state cooptation of human bodies, dehumanization of marginalized groups, and the use of inflammatory religious rhetoric to manipulate a narrative. It is a courageous and powerful depiction of the universal human struggles between resisting and succumbing to an oppressive regime.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2021
Publisher: American University in Cairo Press

An Unflinching and Deeply Humane Masterwork

"What Strange Paradise" is a remarkable and deeply humane masterwork by a writer of astounding talent and courage. Omar El Akkad, the author of this profound novel, has crafted a story that is both captivating and thought-provoking, leaving readers in awe of his literary prowess.

The novel takes place in a fictional city, where mysterious men are rounding up street children and enrolling them in a so-called "rehabilitation program." This program, purportedly designed to indoctrinate these children for the military-backed regimes imminent crackdown on its opponents, is a chilling reminder of the ongoing human rights abuses and political unrest in many parts of the world.

Across town, thousands of protesters have encamped in a city square, demanding the return of the recently deposed president. The atmosphere is tense, with tensions running high as the protesters clash with security forces who are attempting to disperse them. The situation evokes memories of recent clashes in Egypt and reflects the broader political movements worldwide where civilians face off against state power.

In "What Strange Paradise," Abdel Aziz deftly illustrates the universal human struggles between resisting and succumbing to an oppressive regime. The characters in the novel are complex and relatable, their lives intertwined with the political turmoil that surrounds them. Through their experiences, readers gain a deeper understanding of the human cost of oppression and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its portrayal of the state's cooptation of human bodies. The characters are subjected to various forms of dehumanization, from physical abuse to psychological manipulation. The use of inflammatory religious rhetoric to manipulate a narrative is also a powerful and thought-provoking element of the book.

"What Strange Paradise" is a courageous and powerful depiction of the state's abuse of power and the dehumanization of marginalized groups. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice.

This novel is a must-read for anyone who values human rights, social justice, and the power of literature to shed light on the darker aspects of human existence. It is a testament to the writer's talent and courage, and it will leave readers pondering the implications of their actions and the world around them for years to come.

ISBN-13: 9781649030818