Intro: What is What by Dave Eggers

Valentino Achak Deng the main character in What is the What by Dave Eggers. This novel based around the theme of diversity. Valentino an immigrant from Africa spent his early life in refugee camps during a time of civil war in which Sudan's government was against the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army. Valentino moved to the United States and lives in Atlanta where hundreds of refugees have been placed. Valentino must now deal with a change in atmosphere and an introduction to western cultures. Valentino used to run from lions, avoid bombings, and live a life of fear. That fear is still deep within Valentino's mind the only difference is where it is coming from.