Yasmin Zaher's 'The Coin': A Powerful Tale of Exile and Identity in Trump's America
February 20, 2025
Zaher's writing challenges conventional narratives in American literature, offering a unique critique of capitalist structures and cultural norms prevalent in the U.S.
The review concludes by praising The Coin as a complex and insightful exploration of identity, trauma, and the struggle for dignity, resonating with contemporary literary discussions.
Zaher employs the metaphor of 'dirt' to explore the complexities of her character's life, linking it to themes of national identity, psychological burdens of exile, and the notion of cleanliness.
As an heiress who is also a second-class citizen due to her Palestinian heritage, the protagonist grapples with feelings of alienation and the stark contradictions between wealth and poverty.
The novel intertwines elements of humor and tragedy, ultimately leading the protagonist to recognize her Palestinian identity and reconnect with her roots, despite ongoing struggles for liberation.
The Coin is positioned as a significant work of 'minor literature,' engaging with political themes and providing a critical perspective on the immigrant experience in America.
Yasmin Zaher's debut novel, The Coin, delves into the themes of exile, identity, and the American dream through the lens of a Palestinian protagonist navigating life in New York City during the Trump presidency.
The protagonist's obsession with cleanliness and material possessions serves as a reflection of her internal struggles and her quest for identity amidst the chaos of her environment.
The title of the novel refers to a coin swallowed by the protagonist as a child, symbolizing her personal trauma and the broader socio-political challenges faced by Palestinians.
Zaher's narrative style is characterized by a stream-of-consciousness technique, rich imagery, and a focus on fashion and consumer culture, which highlight class distinctions and personal desires.
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Los Angeles Review of Books • Feb 19, 2025
The Devil as the Dream | Los Angeles Review of Books