59 pages • 1 hour read
The Trees
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Book Brief
309
Novel • Fiction
Money, Mississippi • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Trees, a string of bizarre murders in Money, Mississippi, mimics the historic lynching of Emmett Till, drawing two Black detectives to investigate. As similar murders spread nationwide, the case reveals deep-seated racism, culminating in a confrontation with an elderly woman, Mama Z, who has meticulously documented lynchings throughout her life. The book discusses racial violence and discriminatory behavior graphically.
Dark
Mysterious
Unnerving
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
41,217 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Percival Everett's The Trees is lauded for its compelling narrative and incisive social commentary on racial violence, mixed with dark humor. Critics appreciate its clever blend of mystery and satire, although some note the graphic content may be challenging for readers. The novel's complexity and depth offer a profound reading experience, despite occasional uneven pacing.
Who Should Read The Trees?
The ideal reader of Percival Everett’s The Trees is one who appreciates a blend of sharp satire, historical reflection, and societal critique, reminiscent of Colson Whitehead's The Underground Railroad. They enjoy thought-provoking narratives that challenge racial injustices and feature a mix of dark humor and profound storytelling.
41,217 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sheriff Jetty
Sheriff Jetty
The sheriff of Money, Mississippi, a complicated character who grapples with his own racial biases while conducting his duties.
Herberta “Herbie” Hind
Herberta “Herbie” Hind
A Black woman and FBI agent assisting with the murder investigations in Money, who deals with criticism from her community due to her role in law enforcement.
Mama Z
Mama Z
A 100-year-old woman with a deep personal history tied to racial violence, known for keeping a comprehensive record of lynchings in America.
Digby and Brady
Digby and Brady
Two racist police officers in Money, Mississippi, representing endemic and institutionalized racism.
Gertrude
Gertrude
A white-passing Black woman connected with a secretive organization, pivotal in connecting key characters within the narrative.
Damon
Damon
A scholar with a distant perspective on rural racism, brought to Money to grasp the deeply rooted history of racial violence.
309
Novel • Fiction
Money, Mississippi • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
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