Book Review: Everything Sad is Untrue

 Book Review: Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri

1. Nayeri, D. (2020). Everything sad is untrue : (a true story). Levine Querido.

ISBN 1646140001

2. Plot Summary

This is an autobiographical story that is told from the perspective of an Iranian refugee. Following the intense journey of a family escaping their homeland and making the long journey to the United States. This book showcases the story of this character’s experience of being a refugee, a student and a family member. He is different than anyone around him. You learn about the depth and richness of Daniel’s life through the stories that are told throughout this book.

3. Critical Analysis

This book is written in a way that transcends all ages. It features themes that are understood by all people; themes of family, growing up and being different. The reader is constantly engaged in this novel due to the dual themes of Daniel’s everyday life and the stories of his family and past life.  

4. Awards

Winner of the Michael L. Printz Award
Christopher Award Winner
Middle East Book Award Winner
National Indie Bestseller
NPR Best Book of the Year
New York Times Best of the Year
Amazon Best of the Year
Booklist Editors' Choice
BookPage Best of the Year
NECBA Windows & Mirrors Selection
Publishers Weekly Best of the Year
Wall Street Journal Best of the Year
Today.com Best of the Year
Walter Awards Honor Book
"A modern masterpiece."—The New York Times Book Review
"Supple, sparkling and original."—The Wall Street Journal
"Mesmerizing."—TODAY.com

 

5. Connections

This book could be connected to experiences of other refugees. A another book that  could be read alongside this book could be The Lightless Sky by Gulwali Passarlay. This features the story of a 12 year Afghani refugee.

Book Review by Barbara Jean Thompson