Call Me American by Abdi Nor Iftin chronicles Abdi’s life from his humble beginnings in Somalia, through the chaos of civil war, his eventual escape to Kenya, and his triumphant journey to America, all fueled by his passion for American culture. Topics in the memoir include civil war violence and starvation.

Call Me American by Abdi Nor Iftin offers a gripping memoir of resilience amidst Somalia's turmoil. Praised for its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, it provides an insightful refugee narrative. However, some reviews note occasional pacing issues and a desire for more detailed reflections on certain experiences. Overall, it is an inspiring read.

A reader who would enjoy Call Me American by Abdi Nor Iftin is likely someone interested in immigration, cultural identity, and personal resilience. This memoir will appeal to fans of Born a Crime by Trevor Noah and Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who seek compelling, true stories about overcoming adversity and navigating new worlds.

Inspirational / Emotional / Challenging / Hopeful

- Abdi Nor Iftin initially garnered attention for his story through a series of audio diaries he produced for BBC's radio program From Our Own Correspondent, which narrated his life in Somalia.
- The title "Call Me American" stems from Iftin's deep admiration for American culture, which he experienced through movies and music while growing up in war-torn Somalia.
- Abdi Nor Iftin's journey to the United States was aided by winning the Diversity Visa Lottery, an event he describes with both excitement and tension in the narrative of his memoir.

**Abdi Nor Iftin**  
The memoir's protagonist, who grows up in Somalia amidst civil war and dreams of escaping to America inspired by American movies, eventually applying for the green card lottery.

**Madinah Iftin**  
Abdi's mother, a former nomad who struggles to protect her family amid the instability brought by the Somali civil war while longing for her simpler, past life.  

**Hassan Iftin**  
Abdi's practical and realistic brother who leaves Somalia for Kenya, aiming for a safer and more achievable life.  

**Nur Iftin**  
Abdi's father, who initially provides for the family as a basketball star but later departs to protect them when his status fails to offer safety during the civil war.  

**Macalin Basbaas**  
A teacher at the madras in Mogadishu whose harsh methods reflect the desperate hopes of parents in a war-torn society for their children's future.  

**Faisa**  
Abdi’s first love, whose relationship with him is challenged by cultural expectations and disrupted by the war.  

**Bob**  
A coworker at the insulation company in America who shares his struggles, offering Abdi insight into the challenges faced by some Americans.

Abdi Nor Iftin

Adult

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