A review by aortiz
Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

This book is not the type that I usually read, but its description enthralled me. The story takes place in Harlem in the 1960s, and it follows an African-American man named Carney who repeatedly struggles to balances his legit business and his crooked one. Plot-wise, I would say that this book is more about vengeance than heists. One of the things that I liked the most is how the author portraited the political and social climate against the African-American Community. It was effortless to imagine the streets of Harlem and its air of violence, racism, and fear. With regards to the characters, I would say that they are well-constructed, but I did not empathize with any of them.  Also, I think that there is more background than action in this book, which makes it boring from time to time. In summary, I believe that this is not a bad book, but it was just not for me.

Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books, I had the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for an honest review.