34 pages 1 hour read

Zadie Smith

The Embassy of Cambodia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

"The Embassy of Cambodia" by Zadie Smith follows Fatou, a woman from the Ivory Coast living in London who is subjected to modern-day domestic enslavement. As Fatou navigates her daily life, she engages in theological and philosophical discussions with her friend Andrew, seeking understanding about suffering and human existence. The story explores themes of dehumanization, self-reliance, and the struggles of everyday life.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Zadie Smith's The Embassy of Cambodia is lauded for its poignant exploration of immigrant life and complex social themes, earning praise for its compelling narrative and rich character development. However, some critics find the novella's brevity limits deeper engagement with its subjects. Overall, it’s acclaimed for its thought-provoking and beautifully crafted storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Embassy of Cambodia?

A reader who enjoys The Embassy of Cambodia by Zadie Smith would likely savor nuanced, character-driven narratives exploring themes of displacement and social dynamics. Fans of The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri or Brick Lane by Monica Ali may find similar pleasures in Smith's rich storytelling and sharp sociocultural insights.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Emotions/Behavior: Hate & Anger

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride

Genre

Education

British Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

Education