86 pages • 2 hours read
Invisible Man
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Book Brief
581
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1930s
1952
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Invisible Man follows a young Black man growing up in the Jim Crow South who strives for professional success despite facing racial discrimination and stereotyping. After being expelled from college under false pretenses, he moves to New York City, becomes a community activist with the Brotherhood of Man, and grapples with betrayal and identity. Characterized by psychological and social themes, the novel explores the protagonist's journey towards self-determination. The book contains depictions of racial violence and medical mistreatment.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Gritty
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
200,146 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man is hailed for its profound narrative and exploration of identity and society. Critics praise its compelling prose and insightful commentary on racial issues. However, some find its structure complex and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's considered a powerful and important work in American literature, despite minor stylistic critiques.
Who Should Read Invisible Man?
Ideal for those captivated by existential and social themes, readers of Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison will enjoy profound, thought-provoking explorations of identity and race. Fans of Richard Wright’s Native Son and James Baldwin’s Go Tell It on the Mountain will appreciate this powerful narrative on the African American experience.
200,146 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Protagonist's Grandfather
Protagonist's Grandfather
Appears in flashbacks, leaving a lasting impression with his critical views on racial submission and warnings about the deceitfulness of White people's promises.
Dr. Bledsoe
Dr. Bledsoe
A college administrator who appears humble towards White men but secretly despises them, ultimately betraying the protagonist.
Jack, aka Brother Jack
Jack, aka Brother Jack
A White leader in an organization who mentors the protagonist before abandoning him, characterized by his red hair and symbolic lost eye.
Mary Rambo
Mary Rambo
A maternal figure in Harlem who provides the protagonist with shelter and hope while representing the struggles and persistence of the Black community.
581
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1930s
1952
Adult
18+ years
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