Them

Them by Andrew J. Gregor is an engrossing political literary fiction that addresses prejudice, identity, and intergenerational trauma in small-town USA. Set in the fictional land of Culver City, Kansas, the story focuses on Jonah Piers, a 15-year-old hobbled by the bigotry of his father, who lies far to the right of the political spectrum, and his own awakening, particularly in his feelings toward Leila, a Muslim girl of Lebanese descent who’s in his class.

Gregor skilfully demonstrates that contempt can be passed down through the generations, showing how societal fear and ignorance seep into our hearts. The conversations between Jonah and Leila and Jonah and his father, Jesse — a self-styled patriot with ugly, deeply held biases — illustrate the clash between a perspective built on hatred and one based on compassion. The small-town backdrop magnifies such dynamics, mirroring larger national debates about race, religion, and terrorism.

One of the novel’s great strengths is the subtlety with which its characters are developed. Jesse’s transition from prejudice to rage that drives him to secretly surveil the local Muslim community mirrors the dangers of unchecked xenophobia. On the other hand, Jonah’s difficult decision and relationship with Leila represent an emotional portrait of growing up during a moral crisis. Diverse chapters impart layers on the course of loathsome attacks and casualties and provide valuable information to the emotional epilogue.

The pacing sometimes lags, with detailed explorations of the town’s history and side characters, but added context provides depth. Them also doesn’t shy away from the harsher realities of prejudice while also carving out room for growth and understanding, making it a timely and thought-provoking read.

Overall, Them gives fear and ignorance a human face. Gregor’s fully realized characters and relentless storytelling challenge readers to grapple with difficult truths about America’s continued struggles with race, religion, and tolerance. Highly recommended for people looking for socially engaged fiction that balances the personal with the political in its own identity, this novel is sure to move readers today as it has before.