Gary Shteyngart's new novel, 'Vera, or Faith,' tells the story of a 10-year-old Korean American girl named Vera, who navigates her life in a dystopian future America, exploring themes of anxiety and societal dysfunction.

The narrative sheds light on the immense pressure children face to succeed, illustrating the psychological toll of living in a world fraught with political and social turmoil.

Set against a backdrop of a looming political crisis involving constitutional conventions, the story highlights how these changes threaten to redefine voting rights, marginalizing individuals like Vera and complicating her quest for identity and acceptance.

Through Vera's innocent concerns, the novel reflects on the absurdity of modern life, juxtaposing her personal struggles with larger existential threats, ultimately portraying a world that is both comedic and tragic.

Vera's family dynamics are strained, particularly her relationship with her egotistical father, whose liberal pretensions clash with his selfish behavior, significantly impacting Vera's worldview.

Shteyngart masterfully blends humor with darker themes, allowing readers to engage with Vera's youthful perspective while feeling the weight of pressing societal issues.

In this speculative version of the United States, Vera faces bullying at school while grappling with her ambitions to excel academically and fit in socially.

The novel critiques contemporary issues such as systemic racism, gender inequality, and the absurdities of a society increasingly influenced by technology and political unrest.