The Last White Man

The Last White Man cover
Good Books rating 4.0
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Technical
  • ID: 3054
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780241566589
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2022-08-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid explores a world where people wake up to find their skin color has changed, leading to societal upheaval and personal transformation. Anders, the protagonist, discovers his own skin has darkened and turns to Oona, an old friend turned lover, for support. As similar transformations occur across the land, the novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the rediscovery of identity in a time of profound change. The story is a poignant exploration of how people adapt to and perceive change, both within themselves and in the world around them. /n/n Hamid's novel is praised for its compelling narrative and insightful examination of societal and personal upheaval. The relationship between Anders and Oona deepens as they navigate the shifting landscape, offering a chance to see one another anew. The book is a testament to the author's ability to confront challenging truths with compassion and wisdom, making it a transformative tale that resonates deeply with readers.

Reviews
Andrew Blackman · Andrew Blackman · 2022-09-03
thought-provoking 4.00

The reviewer praises the brilliant premise and the atmosphere of threat and danger in a new and unstable world. They highlight Hamid's skill in setting up a compelling narrative.

Andrew Blackman highlights how Mohsin Hamid masterfully sets up a brilliant premise and builds an atmosphere of threat and danger in a new and unstable world. This creates a sense of urgency and intrigue that keeps the reader hooked. Blackman appreciates Hamid's ability to weave a narrative that is both thought-provoking and engaging, making 'The Last White Man' a standout read.


Quick quotes

    Hamid does such a good job of setting up a brilliant premise and building up an atmosphere of threat and danger in a new and unstable world.

    The narrative is both thought-provoking and engaging.

    Hamid's ability to weave a compelling story is evident throughout the book.

LibroFulltime · 2022-08-13
immersive 3.50

The reviewer finds the style hypnotic and immersive, though they note that not everyone may appreciate it. The book avoids graphic violence but still conveys a sense of unease.

The reviewer at LibroFulltime describes the style of 'The Last White Man' as hypnotic and immersive, creating a compelling reading experience. They appreciate how the book avoids graphic violence while still conveying a sense of unease and tension. However, they acknowledge that this style may not appeal to everyone. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of identity and transformation to be particularly noteworthy.


Quick quotes

    I found the style sort of hypnotic and immersive while not presenting bloody violence at you the whole time.

    The book's exploration of identity and transformation is particularly noteworthy.

    This style may not appeal to everyone, but it creates a compelling reading experience.

The Guardian · 2022-08-08
engaging 4.50

The book is described as compellingly readable and strangely musical, reminiscent of a folktale. It explores themes of transformation and identity in a unique and engaging way.

The reviewer found 'The Last White Man' to be a captivating read, with a narrative style that feels almost musical and folktale-like. This style enhances the exploration of profound themes such as identity and transformation. The story's premise is intriguing, and the way it unfolds keeps the reader engaged throughout. The reviewer appreciates how the book tackles complex issues in a manner that feels both timely and timeless.


Quick quotes

    It makes for a book that is compellingly readable and strangely musical, as if being recounted as a kind of folktale to future generations.

    The novel's premise is intriguing and the way it unfolds keeps the reader engaged throughout.

    The story tackles complex issues in a manner that feels both timely and timeless.