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304
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
Paul Beatty's The Sellout follows an African-American man named Me who, after feeling lost due to the dissolution of his hometown of Dickens and the death of his father, attempts to reinstate segregation and slavery to bring attention to racial issues and rejuvenate the community. The novel deals with sensitive topics, including race, segregation, extreme violence, and trauma.
Humorous
Dark
Gritty
Challenging
Unnerving
81,953 ratings
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Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Paul Beatty's The Sellout is lauded for its biting satire, brilliant humor, and unflinching examination of race and culture in America. While some readers find the narrative's irreverence and dense prose challenging, many appreciate the novel's bold, thought-provoking commentary. It offers a powerful mix of comedy and social critique, though its edgy approach may not resonate with all.
Readers who relish sharp satire, biting social commentary, and dark humor will be captivated by Paul Beatty's The Sellout. Comparable to Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man and Joseph Heller's Catch-22, this novel appeals to those who appreciate incisive critiques of race and culture in America.
81,953 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
F. K. Me
Me’s father, a psychologist known for his harsh and unorthodox parenting methods, akin to behaviorist experiments, with the goal of connecting his son to his racial identity. He is both a community therapist and an antagonist in Me’s journey.
Foy Cheshire
An antagonist to both F. K. Me and Me, he is a self-serving figure who uses the community as a means to personal gain, exploiting the belief that one Black person can speak for all. His rivalry with F. K. surfaces through intellectual and personal confrontations.
Hominy Jenkins
A former child actor who becomes Me’s self-imposed slave, acting as his sidekick. Their partnership leads to the restoration of segregation in Dickens, encapsulating layers of performative symbolism around issues of race.
Marpessa Delissa Dawson
Me’s long-time romantic interest, who is confident and independent, boldly managing her roles on and off the bus she drives. She influences Me personally and professionally, embodying strength and overt sexuality.
Charisma Molina
An assistant principal at Chaff Middle School, she supports Me’s controversial changes in the school’s system. Though caught in the story's irony, she plays a crucial role in facilitating the narrative’s climax.
Topsy/Butterfly Davis and Laura Jane
Characters in the narrative who underscore the theme of sexualized women, both having intimate interactions with Hominy. Topsy participates in skinny dipping, while Laura Jane is hired for a birthday event, symbolizing temptation.
King Cuz
A gang leader who supports Me’s actions in Dickens and is associated with the democratization of knowledge in the community. He stands out with his sophisticated dialogue and contributions to the local intellectual group.
304
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
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