'In the City by the Sea' by Kamila Shamsie is a novel that follows an 11-year-old boy named Hasan living in Karachi, Pakistan. The story revolves around Hasan's coming to terms with various changes in his life, including the imprisonment of his uncle, the death of a kite-flying boy, and the evolving political landscape of the country. Hasan's guilt over the boy's death and his changing relationship with his family and friends are central themes in the book. The author skillfully weaves together Hasan's personal struggles with the larger political and social issues of Pakistan, creating a poignant and insightful narrative.
The book is characterized by its descriptive passages, slightly acerbic humor, and political undertones. The narrative unfolds on the roof of Hasan's house, where he witnesses significant events that shape his understanding of the world around him. Through Hasan's observations and interactions, the reader is taken on a journey of self-discovery, guilt, and resilience, set against the backdrop of a changing society and Hasan's personal growth.
From The Publisher:
Hasan is 11 years old and has an idyllic life which is shattered when his uncle, a dissenting politician, is arrested and charged with treason. Hasan resolves to save his uncle, he questions the Oldest Man and hatches plots he can never carry out.
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