Kafka in Tangier

In a nod to Kafka's iconic Metamorphosis, "Kafka in Tangier" by Mohammed Said Hjiouij is a gripping contemporary Moroccan novel delving into the themes of transformation, alienation, and empowerment. Jawad Al-Idrisi, a teacher whose ambitions of literary acclaim have been dashed, awakens one fateful morning to find himself morphed into a monstrous being. As he grapples with his altered reality, he confronts the secrets hidden within his family, the stringent societal structures, and the harsh impact of patriarchal dominance. Through a mosaic of perspectives -ranging from Jawad's viewpoint to his mother's tenacity in freeing him, his father's hidden past, and his sister's diary entries- this narrative offers a kaleidoscopic view, presenting various angles and vividly delving into each character's past. The novel skillfully blends magical realism, absurdity, and postmodernism, creating a mesmerizing and contemplative experience that explores the profound depths of the human condition with wit and humor. Kafka in Tangier is sure to appeal to fans of Kafka's work as well as those interested in modern Arab culture.