CONDITIONAL CITIZENS

Author Laila Lalami narrates this look at what it means to be Muslim in contemporary America. She does so in a sober, measured voice, beginning her account with her naturalization ceremony, which took place the year of the contentious election of George W. Bush to the presidency. Lalami's memoir is a timely examination of the rise of Islamophobia in the U.S. Hers is an unflinching focus on the awkward moments, racial slurs, and other indignities she and other Muslim Americans have suffered since 9/11. Listeners will be drawn in by the consistency of her delivery. The challenges Lalami presents are softened by her gentle yet insistent presentation. Her almost hypnotic delivery leaves a lasting impact even after she has finished. M.R. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2020]