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336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2023
Adult
18+ years
In Crook Manifesto by Colson Whitehead, Ray Carney, a former fence turned legitimate furniture store owner in 1970s Harlem, is thrust back into crime when he seeks stolen Jackson 5 tickets for his daughter. His entanglement with crooked cops and criminals leads him into various dangerous escapades, culminating in a corruption scheme involving arson in Harlem, which he helps to expose and dismantle. The book contains depictions of violence and corruption.
Gritty
Dark
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Challenging
19,663 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Colson Whitehead's Crook Manifesto receives praise for its vivid prose and intricate portrayal of 1970s Harlem, capturing the grit and vibrancy of the period. While some critics find the pacing uneven and character development lacking, the novel’s engaging narrative and sharp social commentary make it a compelling read overall.
A reader who would enjoy Colson Whitehead's Crook Manifesto is likely drawn to gripping tales set in vibrant historical periods. Fans of Whitehead's previous works, like The Nickel Boys, or Walter Mosley's Devil in a Blue Dress, will appreciate this novel's rich character development and exploration of social issues in a 1970s New York City setting.
19,663 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pepper
A quiet and calculating man, Pepper is a crucial secondary character who connects with Ray through their shared criminal past and serves as an honorary member of Ray’s family.
Munson
Munson is a corrupt NYPD officer involved in Ray’s earlier dealings as a fence, representing institutional challenges and intersecting with Ray's journey in ambiguous morality.
Zippo
An eccentric character known for his flamboyant style, Zippo navigates the line between legitimate and illegitimate enterprises, sparking events that reengage Ray with the criminal underworld.
Alexander Oakes
A Harlem-born candidate involved in city corruption, Oakes is supported by Ray’s family despite his ambiguous business activities.
Elizabeth
Ray’s supportive wife who defies her affluent upbringing to stand by him, offering emotional stability while pursuing her own growing career.
May
Ray’s politically inclined daughter engaged in civil rights, who balances her interests with a love for the Jackson 5, reflecting the cultural milieu of her time.
John
May's sibling, showcasing a snarky wit and growing political awareness, reflective of his familial influences and societal interests.
336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2023
Adult
18+ years
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