Book Reviews
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In Saga Across the Atlantic, Shefqet Meko masterfully weaves a tale of resilience, identity, and the pursuit of the American dream through the eyes of Xhelo Lakrori, an Albanian immigrant. This poignant narrative captures the essence of cultural displacement and the enduring human spirit in the face of life’s profound challenges.
The novel opens with Xhelo reflecting on his quarter-century journey in America, a land he perceives as a vast canvas for his life’s narrative. He reminisces about the hardships endured by Albanian refugees like himself and criticizes the political turmoil in Albania, juxtaposing it with the dynamic, albeit tumultuous, democratic processes in the United States. Xhelo’s wife, Shano, is introduced, providing depth to their shared journey. The story details the couple’s adaptation to life in America, illustrating their struggles and the stark contrasts between their past in Albania and the new challenges and opportunities they encounter. The narrative also highlights the experiences of other Albanian immigrants, shedding light on their common struggles and the occasional disillusionment with the American dream. Throughout the novel, Xhelo’s internal monologue offers profound philosophical reflections on freedom, individuality, and the human condition, enriching the reader’s understanding of his quest for purpose and belonging.
I found this book amazing, though I must admit a bit of bias as I, too, come from a European country that has shaken off the shackles of communism, making many of Xhelo’s thoughts resonate deeply with me. There are numerous expressions and cultural elements that echo my own language and traditions. While I have a strong affinity for Xhelo, I absolutely adore the character of his wife. Shano Lakrori is a character of remarkable strength and resilience. Her backstory is marked by tragedy and hardship, particularly involving a forced abortion in her youth that left her infertile. This painful experience profoundly shapes her views on love, family, and self-worth, impacting their entire relationship and future. Despite the emotional burdens she carries, Shano remains a pillar of support for Xhelo. Her unwavering love for him and their ability to navigate the challenges of their new life in America highlight her incredible inner strength and resilience. Shano’s ability to adapt to their circumstances and find solace in her relationship with Xhelo makes her an inspiring and unforgettable character.
There is nothing to dislike about this book. I was thoroughly captivated by the story. Meko’s prose is exceptionally descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the settings, characters, and their emotions. The novel beautifully incorporates elements of Albanian culture, language, and expressions, adding authenticity and a unique flavor to the narrative. Additionally, the book contains remarkably few grammatical issues, indicating that it was professionally edited. This meticulous attention to detail contributed to an unforgettable reading experience.
I recommend this book to fans of literary fiction who enjoy deeply reflective and emotionally resonant stories, particularly those interested in immigrant experiences, cultural identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Additionally, readers with an interest in political themes and the contrasts between different political systems will appreciate the novel’s insightful commentary on the impact of communism and democracy on both personal and societal levels. However, I would like to caution that the book touches on sensitive subjects such as infertility, abortion, murder, and suicide.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly rate Saga Across the Atlantic 5 out of 5 stars. Shefqet Meko has done an outstanding job with this book, particularly through the creation of multi-dimensional characters and detailed world-building, making it a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant read. The author’s ability to weave together elements of Albanian culture and the immigrant experience results in a narrative that is both authentic and universally relatable, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression on its readers.
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The BookViral Review:
“He felt a poignant nostalgia for a period when everything had a clear purpose and a tangible name…”
A powerful and poignant read that oozes suspense The American Visa’s cumulative emotional power resides in its ability to bring reality to life without reducing it to just another generic story.
An illuminating read, written with equal parts passion and calculation, it has compelling real-world relevance. It’s engrossing from the start and there’s a lot for readers to like about Meko’s novel. Not least his ability to place readers alongside his key characters whilst the style of his writing conveys a rare degree of warmth and candour. It’s so personal it’s like he’s opened a window to their souls as he puts a human face to the plight of Albanian immigrants and the endemic levels of corruption that profits from their dreams.
Meko deftly cycles through catharsis, doubt, rage and hope in a narrative that’s underpinned by a timely sense of nuance as he foregrounds elliptical plot strands. First and foremost amongst Meko’s characters is the real Artan Pojani whose identity has been stolen and his application for an American visa denied because it has already been granted to Arshim Gatrani. An immoral interloper who has paid handsomely for the privilege.
Artan’s story is not only edgy but it’s an opportunity to take stock of our expectations, where we come from and where we are going from an immigrant’s perspective and in doing so Meko dispels many of the myths that have become engrained in American social commentary. Tellingly, Artan’s new friend, Pandi, is himself an Albanian immigrant who has settled in America through legitimate means. His story provides Meko with a powerfully reflective perspective whilst Gogo Perculla embodies the persona of those who engage in corrupt behaviour for personal gain.
In a world where information overload often prevents us from seeing the truth, The American Visa lays bare the fissures, cracks and cavernous divides that ripple through the Albanian and American immigration system and the failure to address widespread systemic corruption. More importantly, Meko doesn’t give us a saccharin ending but a sombre one that feels tantalizingly real.
A vivid and immersive read that leaves us with much to think about The American Visa is highly recommended!
