Open City was really thought-provoking. I especially liked how he implemented critical theory ideas - even using the young Arab Muslim as a mouthpiece for Gaston Bachelard and essentially most of the Frankfurt School (he was a quasi-marxist, at least historically). Also, the fact that virtually no plot exists, yes you feel so absorbed, is really a testament to the magnetic quality of Colian writing. It's the type of book you keep by your bed just to so you can be reminded of its brilliance.