Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue has received acclaim for its vivid portrayal of immigrant life and the American Dream's complexities, characterized by strong storytelling and rich character development. However, some critics note it can be predictable and overly reliant on melodrama. Nonetheless, it remains a compelling, empathetic narrative on socio-economic issues.

Readers who appreciate Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue tend to enjoy immersive immigrant stories, complex family dynamics, and themes of aspiration and hardship. Fans of books like Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri will find a similar resonance in Mbue's poignant narrative.

Behold the Dreamers, by Imbolo Mbue, follows two families in New York during the 2008 recession: the Jongas, Cameroonian immigrants struggling with visa issues and economic hardship, and the wealthy, troubled Edwardses, grappling with personal and financial crises. Jende Jonga becomes the chauffeur for Clark Edwards, intertwining the lives and challenges faced by both families. The novel contains depictions of substance abuse, domestic violence, and infidelity.

Imbolo Mbue

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Behold the Dreamers Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Epigraph-Chapter 9

Behold the Dreamers Epigraph-Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-16

Behold the Dreamers Chapters 10-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-25

Behold the Dreamers Chapters 17-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-39

Behold the Dreamers Chapters 26-39 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 40-55

Behold the Dreamers Chapters 40-55 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 56-62

Behold the Dreamers Chapters 56-62 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Behold the Dreamers Character Analysis

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Themes

Behold the Dreamers Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Behold the Dreamers Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Behold the Dreamers Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Behold the Dreamers Essay Topics

Behold the Dreamers

Before You Read

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