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Rating: ⭐⭐��
Genre: Contemporary Fiction + LGBTQ

Nussaibah Younis' debut novel, Fundamentally, explores the complexities of international aid and deradicalization through the story of Nadia, an academic working with the UN in Iraq. After a difficult breakup, Nadia takes on the challenging task of rehabilitating ISIS women, immersing herself in the intricate world of humanitarian efforts and the contentious nature of her work.

When Nadia arrives in Iraq, she realizes that the task ahead of her is much larger than she anticipated and that she may not be the best person for the job. Nevertheless, she embraces the challenge and resolves to pursue her mission in her own way. Along the way, she encounters various personalities, some of whom become significant to her journey.

The story is thought-provoking and sensitive, exploring themes such as terrorism, religion, deradicalization, and the complex issues that accompany them. However, the novel tends to oversimplify these themes, which is likely intentional given the author's choice to adopt a humorous tone throughout the book.

For a debut novel, this was a decent read. Would I recommend it to every reader? Probably not. While some situations were quite funny, providing humor for those seeking it, I don’t believe the book will appeal to all readers looking for a lighthearted experience. Additionally, the novel's portrayal of Islamic culture and religious beliefs often leans towards Western stereotypes, which may disappoint readers who understand the basics of the religion. If you can overlook the story's shortcomings, give it a chance; you might find it enjoyable.


Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of this book.