I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes follows a retired American spy named Murdoch, who is drawn back into action to thwart a bioterrorist named the Saracen, intent on releasing a deadly virus in the U.S. As Murdoch investigates various crime scenes and trails, he uncovers a web of tragedy and espionage connecting the Saracen's vendetta with international consequences. The novel touches on themes related to recreational drug use, suicide, torture, and harm to children.

Terry Hayes' I Am Pilgrim is widely praised for its intricate plot, compelling characters, and relentless pacing. Critics commend Hayes' skillful blend of espionage and thriller elements. However, some find the narrative overly complex and drawn out. Overall, it's lauded as a gripping and ambitious debut that keeps readers on edge despite occasional verbosity.

Fans of espionage thrillers akin to The Bourne Identity or Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy will relish the complex, fast-paced narrative of I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes. Readers who appreciate intricate international plots, deep character development, and intelligent, suspenseful storytelling will find this book captivating.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Dark / Gritty / Challenging

- I Am Pilgrim is the debut novel by Terry Hayes, who is also known for his career as a screenwriter for films such as Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior and Dead Calm.
- Before transitioning to novel writing, Terry Hayes was already an accomplished journalist and had worked as a foreign correspondent in America, covering major events for Australian newspapers.
- The book received critical acclaim and won the "Best First Novel" award at the 2014 Specsavers National Book Awards in the UK.

Terry Hayes

Adult

Novel

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Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore I Am Pilgrim and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

I Am Pilgrim Summary

Background

I Am Pilgrim Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-8

I Am Pilgrim Part 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-14

I Am Pilgrim Part 1, Chapters 9-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 1-7

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 8-13

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 8-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 14-23

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 14-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 24-28

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 24-28 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 29-41

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 29-41 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 42-51

I Am Pilgrim Part 2, Chapters 42-51 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 1-12

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 1-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 13-24

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 13-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 25-37

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 25-37 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 38-51

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 38-51 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 52-61

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 52-61 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 62-72

I Am Pilgrim Part 3, Chapters 62-72 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 1-13

I Am Pilgrim Part 4, Chapters 1-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 14-27

I Am Pilgrim Part 4, Chapters 14-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 28-39

I Am Pilgrim Part 4, Chapters 28-39 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 40-52

I Am Pilgrim Part 4, Chapters 40-52 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

I Am Pilgrim Character Analysis

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Themes

I Am Pilgrim Themes

Symbols & Motifs

I Am Pilgrim Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

I Am Pilgrim Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

I Am Pilgrim Essay Topics

I Am Pilgrim

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read I Am Pilgrim?

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