The story of the political awakening of an aging small-time journalist in Portugal on the eve of WW II. Set against the background of fascist Salazarist Portugal and the Spanish Civil War. Remarkable storytelling, in that during most of the book very little happens that stands out. There are subtle key conversations, small but important events, the main characters own thoughts and reflections. There is a further layer of distance with the stylistic effect of it being the report of what Pereira has said.
An author worth exploring further. I can also see why Mohsin Hamid speaks so highly of him - there is a similarity of style, of building slowly through minor shades and events, especially in "The Reluctant Fundamentalist".
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