Rita Reviews

living my best possible southern life

First World Problems in an Age of Terrorism and Ennui by: Dominic Peloso

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First World Problems in an Age of Terrorism and Ennui Dominic Peloso

About the Book:

First World Problems tells the existential struggles of a gen-x would-be revolutionary/terrorist who is frustrated that he can’t find a greater purpose or a cause worth fighting for. Set in DC between the WTO protests in 2000 and the attacks of 9/11, the protagonist- a disaffected, unreliable narrator who is irritated and bewildered with the world and the attitudes of those around him, wanders aimlessly through his interactions with coworkers, friends, and his girlfriend, all of whom seem to care about him but don’t understand him. He lashes out in a passive-aggressive way by maintaining a blog filled with tips “terrorists and anarchists” can use in their attacks, but the blog receives few hits or feedback, no matter how incendiary the posts. He attends the WTO demonstration hoping to experience a riot, but is disappointed at how artificial and tame political protests have become in the new millennium. He dreams of a major attack, just to shake up the status quo. But when 9/11 unfolds he is forced to reassess his goals and what is important in his life.

 My Thoughts:

First World Problems is superbly written! You read it and then wonder if there really were people who were like Tyler, the main character, and how they felt after 9/11.  Tyler is a public servant who searches for meaning in his comfortable DC life, and in doing so casually pursues an odd recreational activity. He suffers from excessive introspection, shyness, boredom, and complete lack of personal connection. Not to mention frustration. So he sets off to inspire would-be terrorists. Then 9/11 happens and Tyler is left having to reevaluate his life. All in all this is great read and really makes you think about things.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  2. This sounds like a very interesting read! Thanks for the review, I have to find this book at my library for sure.

  5. This sounds like an interesting book. I will have to check my library and see if they have a copy. Thanks for the review.