59 pages • 1 hour read
The Sellout
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
81,953 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read The Sellout?
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
304
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
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