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29 pages 58 minutes read

Between Riverside And Crazy

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Stephen Adly Guirgis

Between Riverside And Crazy

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2010s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Between Riverside and Crazy by Stephen Adly Guirgis centers on an ex-cop named Pops, who is grappling with the potential eviction from his rent-controlled Riverside Drive apartment while navigating complex family dynamics, including his relationship with his son Junior, against the backdrop of a lawsuit against the city stemming from a racially charged police shooting. The play contains language and themes that may be sensitive for some audiences.

Gritty

Humorous

Emotional

Mysterious

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

869 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen Adly Guirgis's Between Riverside and Crazy is praised for its sharp dialogue and complex characters, blending humor and gravitas effectively. Critics commend the play’s exploration of gentrification and redemption. However, some note its pacing issues and occasional predictability. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking piece with standout performances.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Between Riverside And Crazy?

A reader who enjoys Between Riverside and Crazy by Stephen Adly Guirgis would appreciate dark humor, complex characters, and gritty urban settings. Comparable to readers of August Wilson's Fences and Tracy Letts' August: Osage County, they are drawn to stories exploring family dynamics, societal struggles, and redemption.

4.2

869 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Walter “Pops” Washington

A former NYPD police officer living in a rent-controlled apartment on the West Side of Manhattan. Pops navigates complex relationships with those in his household and grapples with personal challenges, including grief and past trauma.

Pops's son, who resides with him and strives to improve his life after a criminal past. Junior's relationships are marked by tension, especially with his father, as he attempts to reconcile his past and present circumstances.

A friend of Pops who is temporarily living with him and trying to maintain sobriety. Despite the occasional relapse, he is grateful for Pops's generosity and friendship.

Junior’s girlfriend, characterized by her attractiveness and penchant for manipulation. She lives with Junior and Pops, drawing attention for her sometimes scant attire and complex relationship dynamics within the household.

A visiting character who engages with Pops directly, charming him through a mix of open conversations and bold actions. Her presence is marked by a blend of religious symbolism and personal complexity.

A close acquaintance of Pops, once a rookie under his supervision while he was an NYPD officer. Her connection to Pops is deep enough to lead to personal requests and shared confidences.

Detective Audrey O’Connor's fiancé, noted for his assertive demeanor, which can become abrasive when drinking. His interactions with Pops illustrate the tension between professional and personal spheres.

Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2010s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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