The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984 Summary
Riad Sattouf

The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984 Overview

Riad Sattouf’s graphic memoir, The Arab of the Future, depicts his life from the age of two to six. In order to work as a professor and engage his political interests, Sattouf’s Syrian father moves his family—his French wife, Sattouf, and later a second son—from France to Libya and then Syria. Written from Sattouf’s perspective, the work observes the differences in identity, culture, politics, and family dynamics in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, as understood by a child.