Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead
Book Review
Happy Monday, Friends! What’s everyone reading this week??
I just finished up Harlem Shuffle by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Colson Whitehead. Shoutout to Doubleday Books for the gifted copy!
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and while it was intriguing, it didn’t captivate me quite like I hoped.
The story follows Ray Carney, a furniture salesman and family man, in 1960’s Harlem. Despite occasionally reselling stolen goods dropped off by his cousin, Freddie, Ray rarely strays from the straight and narrow…that is until Freddie pulls him into a botched heist. At which point, Ray begins a sort of double life - selling furniture and providing services to crooks and gangsters.
In addition to the family drama of Ray, his wife, his in-laws and cousin Freddie, the reader is introduced to a cast of nefarious characters, all of whom are distinguished by the role they play in Ray and Freddie’s precarious schemes. Furthermore, Harlem acts as a supporting character in the story, as the borough is overrun with violence and riots in response to the killing of an innocent black boy by local police.
Admittedly, it took me a good 100+ pages to feel engaged in this story. Despite the exquisite writing, it felt like there was a key ingredient missing - one that would really draw the reader in and force them to keep reading. I ended up putting the book down for weeks at a time before picking it back up to give it another try. That said, the second half of the book felt much faster-paced and easier to follow. I also really appreciated the setting of the book, both from a historical and personification standpoint. The author’s appreciation and love for New York City and the rich history of Harlem really shines through in the book.
If you’re a die-hard Colson Whitehead fan or just love a good heist story, definitely give this one a go! However, if you’re new to the author, I would recommend picking up The Nickel Boys or The Underground Railroad instead.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
