45 pages • 1 hour read
Cotton Comes To Harlem
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Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York City • 1960s
1964
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Cotton Comes to Harlem follows African American detectives Grave Digger Jones and Coffin Ed Johnson as they pursue Reverend Deke O'Malley, who has swindled $87,000 from Black families dreaming of returning to Africa. Unbeknownst to them, the money is hidden in a bale of cotton, leading them through a series of twists in Harlem as they chase the stolen funds and navigate various suspects and schemes. The novel features themes of violence, racism, and crime.
Gritty
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Humorous
Dark
Reviews & Readership
2,783 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Cotton Comes to Harlem by Chester Himes offers a gripping, fast-paced narrative enriched with vibrant characterizations and a compelling depiction of Harlem. Critics praise its blend of humor and social commentary, though some note that the plot can be convoluted. Overall, Himes' work is celebrated for its originality and vivid narrative style.
Who Should Read Cotton Comes To Harlem?
Fans of hard-boiled detective fiction with a social conscience will enjoy Cotton Comes to Harlem by Chester Himes. Comparable to the works of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, this book appeals to readers who appreciate gritty urban settings, sharp wit, and complex characters navigating racial tensions in mid-20th century America.
2,783 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York City • 1960s
1964
Adult
18+ years
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