The Residue Years
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013
352
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • 1990s
2013
Adult
18+ years
The Residue Years by Mitchell S. Jackson is an autobiographical novel set in late 1990s Portland, Oregon, focusing on Champ and his mother, Grace, as they navigate the challenges posed by their contrasting relationships with crack-cocaine. Grace, recently out of rehab and aiming to stay sober, faces difficulties finding stable employment, while Champ turns to dealing crack to support his family, reflecting the impact of drugs on their community, racial tensions, and their identities. Sensitive topics include drug addiction, sex work, and legal struggles.
Gritty
Emotional
Challenging
Dark
Melancholic
1,507 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mitchell S. Jackson's The Residue Years offers a raw, poignant portrayal of Black urban life, praised for its authentic voice and lyrical prose. Critics commend its powerful narrative and character depth, but some note its intense, heavy themes could deter sensitive readers. Overall, it stands out for its honest exploration of struggle and resilience.
Readers who enjoy gritty, poignant narratives like The Residue Years by Mitchell S. Jackson are drawn to raw, heartfelt stories of struggle and resilience. Fans of The Corner by David Simon or Push by Sapphire will appreciate its unflinching portrayal of life in a marginalized community and its powerful prose.
1,507 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • 1990s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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