41 pages • 1 hour read
Black No More: Being an Account of the Strange and Wonderful Workings of Science in the Land of the Free
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Book Brief
250
Novel • Fiction
America • 1930s
1931
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In George Schuyler’s Black No More, Max Disher, a disillusioned African American, undergoes a scientific procedure to become white, seeking to escape racial discrimination. As Max, now known as Matthew, navigates his new identity in Southern society, he infiltrates a white supremacist organization, marries a white woman, and finally confronts the complexities of genetic heritage and racial politics in America. The novel includes discussions on race, discrimination, and identity.
Humorous
Dark
Informative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
4,791 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Black No More by George Schuyler is praised for its satirical examination of race and identity in America. Readers appreciate its humor and bold social critique. However, some find its pacing uneven and characters lacking depth. Overall, it's recognized as a pioneering work that provokes thought and conversation.
Who Should Read Black No More?
A reader who enjoys Black No More by George Schuyler likely appreciates satirical social commentary and speculative fiction. They are fans of works like Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and 1984 by George Orwell, seeking incisive critiques of race, identity, and societal norms through a dystopian lens.
4,791 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dr. Junius Crookman
Dr. Junius Crookman
An entrepreneur from Harlem who invents the Black-No-More treatment, opening numerous sanitariums across the country. He becomes wealthy as his racial transformation service gains popularity.
Rev. Henry Givens
Rev. Henry Givens
A comedic figure who is Matthew’s employer and leader of the white supremacist organization, the Knights of Nordica. He is a former Ku Klux Klan leader and rises to political power.
Helen Fisher, née Givens
Helen Fisher, née Givens
Matthew's wife, characterized by her youth and beauty, initially displays racist tendencies. Her views are challenged as her family history is revealed.
Bunny Brown
Bunny Brown
Max's best friend and the only person who knows the truth about Max’s transformation. He assists Matthew in his ventures after undergoing the Black-No-More treatment himself.
Arthur Snobbcraft
Arthur Snobbcraft
President of the Anglo-Saxon Society and part of the First Families of Virginia. He becomes entangled in a political campaign that challenges his views on racial purity.
250
Novel • Fiction
America • 1930s
1931
Adult
18+ years
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