If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English Summary
Noor Naga

If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English Overview

In Noor Naga's novel If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English, main character Noor relocates to Egypt decades after her parents emigrated from the country. Although hopeful that life in Cairo will resolve her internal unrest, she soon discovers how alienating the location makes her feel. Her relationship with a boy from Shobrakheit further complicates her regard for the country and her understanding of herself. Written from both Noor's and the boy's first person points of view and displaying formal experimentation throughout, the novel explores themes including identity, belonging, and autonomy.