American War by Omar El Akkad is a speculative fiction novel set in a dystopian near-future where climate change has ravaged the American East Coast, triggering a Second American Civil War between the federal government and Southern states over the prohibition of fossil fuels. The narrative follows Sarat Chestnut, who is radicalized by personal tragedies and societal upheaval, through her journey of survival, insurgency, and ultimate revenge. The book contains depictions of war-related violence and torture.

American War by Omar El Akkad offers a haunting examination of a second American Civil War and the devastation of climate change. Critics praise its chilling plausibility and strong narrative voice, but some note its slow pacing and bleakness. The novel’s compelling character development and insightful socio-political commentary make it a thought-provoking read.

A reader who would enjoy American War by Omar El Akkad is likely fascinated by dystopian literature and near-future speculative fiction. Fans of The Road by Cormac McCarthy and Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel will appreciate its gripping narrative, rich character development, and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in times of conflict.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Gritty / Suspenseful

Omar El Akkad

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Overview

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American War Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “April, 2075—St. James, Louisiana”

Prologue-Excerpt 4

American War Prologue-Excerpt 4 Summary & Analysis

 Part 2: “July, 2081—Iuka, Mississippi”

Chapter 5-Excerpt 6

American War Chapter 5-Excerpt 6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 7-Excerpt 8

American War Chapter 7-Excerpt 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “October, 2086—Lincolnton, Georgia”

Chapter 9-Excerpt 10

American War Chapter 9-Excerpt 10 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 11-Excerpt 12

American War Chapter 11-Excerpt 12 Summary & Analysis

 Chapters 13-16

American War  Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

American War Character Analysis

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Themes

American War Themes

Symbols & Motifs

American War Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

American War Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

American War Essay Topics

American War

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