"Lawrence Hill manages to that rare feat--a political thriller that never loses its heart. Keita's story will entrance you, enrage you, and finally make you want to reach right through the page and hug him. With skill and grace, Hill reminds us of our interconnected-ness with displace people around the world. This is a book about the liberating power of compassion. Don't miss it."
-Dolen Perkins-Valdez
bestselling author of Wench and Balm
One day, a couple of weeks ago, I was pushing through the masses of customers lined up for samples in order to reach my favorite section at Costco; the book section. I became quickly excited at the sight of a book written by an author I actually recognized, Lawrence Hill. For those who are unaware, he is the genius behind the literary work of art, The Book of Negroes. The book of Negroes was such and emotionally enthralling and captivating novel that I knew I must give his new novel a read.
The novel begins with an intriguing scene with the protagonist, Keita, running in a race some years in the future. This is perhaps unsurprising to the reader as the cover page itself indicates that running will be a key theme throughout the novel. This scene is especially important as it highlights right from the beginning another key theme and that is racism. It is important to point out here that Keita is 'Zantorolander' which would be the equivalent to an African American in today's society. Another runner, a white male, harasses Keita as he runs, shouting harsh things at him such as "Gonna kick your ass, nigger." (Hill-4) From this, it is clear that the rest of the novel will involve racial tensions.
Plot Overview
The first chapter begins innocently, describing Keita as a child, rebelliously wearing his running shoes at times which he should not. Yet this innocent tone quickly changes as Keita witnesses the Deacon of his church brutally murdered by extremists who hate the Faloo tribe in which Keita and his family belong. From there, Keita's life slowly takes a turn for the worst. Of course there is still the nice family scenes; Keita's father Yoyo writing his pieces for newspapers, Keita dreaming of running, and the banter between Keita and his older sister Charity. Political tensions increase as the president is killed and a violent government comes into control. Keita's mother dies of a sudden heart attack, and his family begins to be targeted for his fathers controversial journalism. As a reader, I can make clear parallels between the events of this fictional country and countries throughout history, for example the Soviet Union of the Nazi regime. Charity travels to america to study at Harvard, and Keita is left to care for his aging father. But Keita's father is persistent in his efforts to expose the government, which results in his murder. In his desperation to escape his own murder, Keita signs on with a running agent who will secure him a temporary visa so that he can run marathons in Freedom State. Although this is not the best decision, it is the only way Keita can escape the country. Once in the country, Keita escapes from Hamm and wanders alone as an illegal. If he is caught, he will be arrested and deported. The second part of the novel introduces a new point of view from a black, paraplegic journalist, and we are introduced to the child genius John Falconer who is also black. The the character of Ivernia Beech's point of view is introduced, a old women being evaluated after she ran into another vehicle. After winning an essay contest, John begins to film a documentary on the slums of Afric Town, a community of black citizens and illegals.
Reflection
The first half of the novel is so enticing because every chapter and perspective reveals new details that add to the ongoing mystery and plot. It seems clear that Keita's illegal presence in Freedom State will be discovered at some point, because of the continual focus on it. At this point in the novel it is not clear the exact importance of each narrative which adds to the suspense of the novel. There is however clarity in the imitation of the states through freedom state. The racial tensions and violence that it results in is a direct parallel of the racial tension in the states, yet African Americans in the states are actually legal citizens. Also, the negative attitude towards immigrants and refugees is also reflective upon our current society. I think that this connection has helped me to better understand the meaning of the text so far and has deepened my empathy towards refugees.The author uses words and situations that help me to visualize and comprehend what is occurring, especially through the different perspectives.
Overall thoughts
If this wasn't already a mandatory read, I would most definitely continue reading this book. It's direct comparison to our society has both strengthened my morals and helped me gain a better empathetic understanding towards those who have suffered and lost their homes. So far, this novel has been worth every penny of the $14.69 I made my mother pay for it;)
For more information and reviews on The Illegal visit : http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25622897-the-illegal
Tags: lawrence hill, the illegal, immigration, racism, running, award winning
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