Novelist Arezki Mousli discusses geopolitical fiction and dramatic themes at Algiers bookstore

Arezki Mousli's recent novel, "De Vaulx-en-Velin à In Amenas," presented at the Al Ijtihad bookstore in Algiers, delves into the geopolitical and dramatic realities of radicalization. The narrative, drawn from a true story, follows Amin, a young man from the Lyon suburb of Vaulx-en-Velin, who falls prey to Islamist preachers. His uncle, Samir, who once navigated a life of delinquency in the same suburb, is called upon to save him.

Samir's past in Vaulx-en-Velin gives him unique insight into the allure of easy money and the struggles of the youth there. Mousli explains that the lack of societal integration leaves young people vulnerable. "The young people are abandoned to their fate, with no prospects," Mousli stated. "Nothing is done to integrate them into society." He highlights how drug dealing offers an immediate financial escape, often leading to gang leadership. "With this habit of making easy money, it is difficult to extricate them from this environment."

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I know the Lyon suburb that I evoke in the novel. The young people are abandoned to their fate, with no prospects. Nothing is done to integrate them into society. So, when someone offers to make money by selling drugs, it's a godsend for them to earn money. Over time, they become network or gang leaders themselves. With this habit of making easy money, it is difficult to extricate them from this environment.

Beyond crime, Mousli points to "other idle young people who become easy prey for Islamist preachers." These recruiters offer work, but it comes with indoctrination. Amin's story exemplifies this, driven by an "existential void, a lack of guidance, and the feeling of exclusion" common among suburban youth. His uncle Samir, having escaped this life, understands the codes and illusions that trap these young men.

Samir's own journey from delinquency to a serene life in Algeria serves as proof that a dignified existence is possible beyond the urban periphery. After rescuing Amin, Samir leverages his past experiences and connections to combat dealers and preachers in his former neighborhood. He transforms his past into a force for civic engagement, opposing radicalism with cultural memory and a constructive vision.

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There are also other idle young people who become easy prey for Islamist preachers. These latter own shops, among other things. They offer them work to earn a living. But this service is not free. They indoctrinate them and thus integrate them into their groups.