59 pages • 1 hour read
Crook Manifesto
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2023
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
19,663 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Crook Manifesto?
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
336
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2023
Adult
18+ years
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