Plot Summary

Walkin' the Dog

Walter Mosley
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Walkin' the Dog

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999

Book Brief

Walter Mosley

Walkin' the Dog

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

260

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1990s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

750L

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Super Short Summary

In Walter Mosley's Walkin' the Dog, Socrates Fortlow, an ex-con who served nearly thirty years for rape and murder, attempts to reform after his release by navigating the challenges of living a straight life in Los Angeles. Through a series of vignettes, the novel explores his struggle for justice, self-control, and his mentorship of a local youth, all while confronting systemic racism and police brutality.

Gritty

Mysterious

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,983 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Walter Mosley's Walkin' the Dog has been lauded for its compelling character development and engrossing narrative. Reviewers praise its exploration of redemption and societal issues, though some critique its slower pacing at times. Overall, it stands out for its depth and thought-provoking themes, making it a worthwhile read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Walkin' the Dog?

Readers who appreciate Walkin' the Dog by Walter Mosley are often drawn to gritty urban narratives and complex characters. Comparable to fans of Richard Wright's Native Son and Chester Himes' If He Hollers Let Him Go, they enjoy explorations of racial issues, justice, and redemption, told with compelling depth and authenticity.

4.3

1,983 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

260

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1990s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

750L

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