A man child nearly 30 years old continues to live with his mother who is separated from his father and happy to continue mothering him even though as a clever student he is opting out of responsibility, career, friends, family or purpose. Two older sisters are independent but for whatever reason seem to accept the status quo with equanimity. A capricious decision by his mother to take in a refugee, one of thousands entering the USA on a government sponsored welfare scheme , is the catalyst to upend the families life with catastrophic results. We the reader, in tandem with our young protagonist recognise the escalating pitfalls that are slowly overwhelming this accommodating family yet frustratingly for all concerned begin to watch events spiral out of any control or possible action on their part that could have prevented a fatal disaster occurring. However, as only a gifted author manages to achieve, this dramatic tragic conclusion is then reshaped and distorted to ensure behind this calamity the writer achieves a potential silver lining for all concerned. Emphasising for citizens and migrants that the USA continues to offer a land of opportunity .

A really interesting satirical novel from a truly gifted writer on the issue of asylum and immigration. Whilst not everyone will agree with how this story turns out, there is no doubt that Shriver is a truly gifted novelist

Although a bit bit of slow burner, it is well worth sticking with this book. Beautifully written and truly a masterpiece.