Her First American
Her First American
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Brief
Beta304
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Lore Segal's Her First American explores the experiences of Ilka Weissnix, a young Austrian Jewish immigrant, as she navigates life in post-war America. Through her relationship with Carter Bayoux, an African American intellectual, the narrative delves into themes of identity, belonging, and cultural intersections in a transforming American society.
Contemplative
Emotional
Romantic
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
742 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Her First American by Lore Segal is praised for its insightful exploration of cross-cultural relationships and identity. Readers appreciate its wit and nuanced portrayal of immigrant experiences. However, some find the pacing uneven and desire deeper character development. Despite this, the novel’s humor and cultural commentary resonate well with audiences.
Who Should Read Her First American?
Readers who enjoy Her First American by Lore Segal likely appreciate cross-cultural narratives, nuanced humor, and immigrant experiences. Fans of Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake and Zadie Smith's White Teeth—books exploring identity and belonging—will find this novel engaging.
742 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
304
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
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