Kaveh Akbar's debut novel, Martyr!, follows Cyrus Shams, a first-generation Iranian American poet grappling with the loss of his mother, who died in a tragic plane bombing. Haunted by grief and searching for meaning, Cyrus embarks on a journey that intertwines his personal struggles with broader themes of identity, legacy, and artistic expression. The narrative delves into the complexities of family, sacrifice, and self-discovery, highlighting the immigrant experience and the impact of loss. Akbar's prose offers a poignant reflection on the human condition and the quest for purpose.
About Kaveh Akbar
Kaveh Akbar is an Iranian-American poet and novelist celebrated for his lyrical exploration of spirituality, identity, and addiction. Born in Tehran in 1989, he immigrated to the U.S. as a child. His poetry collections include Calling a Wolf a Wolf and Pilgrim Bell. In 2024, he published his debut novel, Martyr!, which became a New York Times bestseller and was a National Book Award finalist. Akbar also serves as the poetry editor for The Nation and teaches at the University of Iowa, contributing significantly to contemporary American poetry.
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