Bad Americans: Part I by Tejas Desai is book two of The Human Tragedy series, preceded by Good Americans. Here it follows twelve strangers gathered in the Hamptons for a retreat organized by billionaire Olive Mixer, where participants live together, follow strict pandemic protocols, and take turns sharing nightly stories. Andrea, Cathy, Taylor, and others tell tales of hospital experiences, immigrant lives, legal proceedings, and the pandemic itself. Outside the retreat, events in New York, courtroom testimony, and public health developments coalesce with the stories told on site. Each voice presents its own perspective, from a rural biker with conspiracy theories to a litigator trained in Bharatanatyam, sprinkled in between with international dinners and conversations over weed. Through these vignettes, a spectrum of experiences shaped by circumstance, profession, and environment is shared.

Tejas Desai’s Bad Americans: Part I does well in breaking down a character-driven experiment that is almost entirely made up of descriptions and conversations, and a writing style that values arcs over plots in a way that makes readers comfortable with the format. I like that the cast is diverse and that their interactions over meals, competitions, and personal storytelling show both their clashes and connections in a way that feels real. I'm reminded of Moriarty's Nine Perfect Strangers in how Desai goes for a mixed bag of issues. The motives of the billionaire host with their retreat are less than straightforward compared to those who are there. The writing is occasionally loquacious and caught up in the minutiae, but always comes across as intentional in why it's included. Bad Americans: Part I is a thoughtfully entertaining story—especially when sip-lines are involved—with a true ensemble and inventive scenarios. Unique, solid in its timing, and very highly recommended.

Bad Americans: Part I by Tejas Desai paints a vivid and emotional portrait of American life through a series of interconnected stories revolving around the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on diverse individuals, especially immigrants and frontline workers. The narrative introduces characters like Nurse Beatrice, who battles exhaustion and systemic failures while caring for COVID-19 patients in a busy New York hospital, and Ricardo, an undocumented immigrant fighting for his life against the virus. Alongside their stories, the book explores themes including racism, immigration struggles, family dynamics, and resilience, revealing the deep social and political divides exposed by the pandemic. Through personal tales of hardship, courage, and hope, the book captures the human cost of the crisis. It challenges readers to confront the realities faced by many 'bad Americans,' labeled by society due to their status or circumstance.

Tejas Desai's writing is raw and honest, blending powerful storytelling with sharp social critique. The narrative unfolds with a strong sense of urgency and realism, while the pacing balances detailed personal stories with broader social commentary, keeping readers engaged and reflective. The characters come alive through intimate portrayals of their struggles and triumphs, making the book both moving and thought-provoking. Desai’s skill in contrasting harsh realities with moments of tenderness and humor adds depth and relatability. Themes of injustice, survival, and community resonate strongly throughout, making this more than just a pandemic account but a thoughtful exploration of identity, belonging, and the meaning of being American in difficult times. Bad Americans: Part I left me thinking about what it really means to be American, especially in hard times, and it is a book I won’t forget because of the truth behind it.