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Books matching: racial transformation

11 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 11 
  1. #1

    Black No More by George S. Schuyler
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    'Black No More' by George S. Schuyler is a satirical novel written in 1931 that explores the repercussions of a medical procedure invented by a black scientist that can transform black individuals into white. The story follows the protagonist, Max Disher, who undergoes this transformation and navigates the societal impacts, including joining a white supremacist group. The book delves into themes of race relations, hypocrisy, and the absurdity of discrimination, all presented in a clever and thought-provoking manner. Despite being almost a century old, the book remains relevant and engaging, with a mix of humor and unsettling truths about society's attitudes towards race.

    Max Disher stood outside the Honky Tonk Club puffing a panatela and watching the crowds of white and black folk entering the cabaret. Max was tall, dapper and smooth coffee-brown. His negroid features...

  2. #2

    The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid
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    The novel 'The Last White Man' by Mohsin Hamid explores a fictional world where individuals undergo a sudden transformation, turning dark-skinned. This unexpected change leads to societal unrest, internal struggles, and reflections on racism and privilege. Through the lens of characters like Anders and Oona, the book delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the impact of physical appearance on one's perception of self and others. The writing style, characterized by long, poetic sentences and a lack of dialogue, effectively conveys the emotional and psychological journey of the characters as they navigate this transformative experience.


  3. #3

    X by Kekla Magoon, Ilyasah Shabazz
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    X is a fictional retelling of the early life of Malcolm X with his daughter and stellar, Kekla Magoon. Thoroughly researched using his diaries and writings, the reader meets Malcolm as a six-year-old when he loses his father. This incident is pivotal in his later development and the reader learns about his disillusionment with his parents' uplifting "you can do anything" talks. We follow Malcolm as he flees his home in Flint and lives in Boston and New York, totally absorbed in the high life and hustles, along with drugs, dating a white woman, and burglary, which lands him in jail. Malcolm's time in prison, writing to his family, and embracing Islam mark a turning point in his life to become the leader of his people. The story begins with Malcolm being 14 years old around the time when he and his siblings were separated from his mother. Malcolm learns the truths about his mother, a proud black woman who could pass for white, often doing so in order to secure employment, and then losing jobs when her employers would discover she's black. The story also explores Malcolm's loss of interest in education when told as a negro he should not strive for nor attain success. They also explore how the violent murder of Malcolm's father coupled with the heartless oppression sustained by Malcolm's mother shaped teen Malcolm's world view.


  4. #4

    The Color Purple by Alice Walker
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    "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel that follows the life of Celie, a young black girl growing up in poverty in the early 1900s. The story unfolds through Celie's letters, starting at age 14 when she is raped and impregnated by her stepfather. The narrative spans over 30 years, depicting Celie's journey from a life of abuse and forced marriage to finding love and empowerment, particularly through her relationship with the bi-sexual character, Shug Avery. The novel delves into themes of oppression, racism, sexism, and resilience, offering a poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by black women in early 20th century America.

    Written in the form of letters and diary entries, "The Color Purple" captivates readers with its raw and authentic storytelling. Through Celie's narrative, the book addresses issues of racism, misogyny, and economic enslavement, portraying the harsh realities of life for African American women in 1930s Georgia. The novel also explores themes of love, faith, and empowerment, showcasing Celie's transformation from a victim of abuse to a strong and respected woman who finds her voice and independence.

    Harpo girl daddy say Harpo not good enough for her. Harpo been courting the girl a while. He say he sit in the parlor with her, the daddy sit right there in the corner till everybody feel terrible. Th...

  5. #5

    A Dry White Season by Andre Brink
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    A Dry White Season is a compelling story set in South Africa in the 1970s, following the journey of an ordinary man, Ben Du Toit, who gets entangled in the fight for justice after the mysterious death of his black friend's son, Jonathan, during the Apartheid era. The plot unfolds as Ben, a simple Johannesburg schoolteacher, navigates through the corrupt justice system and oppressive regime, determined to uncover the truth behind the injustices he witnesses. The book employs a thriller-like narrative style, delving into the complexities of societal issues and personal struggles, offering a thought-provoking and intense reading experience.

    It all really began, as far as Ben was concerned, with the death of Gordon Ngubene. But from the notes he made subsequently, and from newspaper cuttings, it is obvious that the matter went back much f...

  6. #6

    To Sir, With Love by E.R. Braithwaite
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    'To Sir, With Love' by E.R. Braithwaite is a poignant account of a black man's struggle to find employment in post-WWII London. The book delves into the challenges faced by the author, Rick Braithwaite, as he navigates through a society rife with racial prejudice. Despite the acceptance he once experienced as a black soldier, Braithwaite is confronted with discrimination and barriers in his quest for a job. Eventually, he stumbles upon a teaching position at a school in inner-city London, where he employs innovative tactics to connect with his students and instill in them values of respect and self-worth.

    Braithwaite's writing style in 'To Sir, With Love' is described as elegant, powerful, and emotionally expressive. The narrative unfolds in a compelling manner, capturing the essence of Braithwaite's experiences and the transformative impact he has on the lives of his students. Through his storytelling, Braithwaite not only sheds light on the societal challenges of his time but also emphasizes the importance of empathy, education, and mutual respect in fostering positive change.

    THE CROWDED RED DOUBLE-DECKERBUS inched its way through the snarl of traffic in Aldgate. It was almost as if it was reluctant to get rid of the overload of noisy, earthy charwomen it had collected on ...

  7. #7

    Every Secret Thing by Laura Lippman
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    Two eleven-year-old girls, Alice and Ronnie, are convicted of kidnapping a baby who ends up dead, leading to their imprisonment for seven years. Upon their release, children start disappearing again, sparking a new investigation. The story is narrated from multiple viewpoints, including the two girls, highlighting the tension and emotion surrounding the crimes and secrets that unfold.

    “Not exactly my favorite word in a doctor’s office.” Cynthia tried to sound lighthearted. The metal apparatus was cold and heavy on her face, and although it wasn’t literally attached, she couldn’t he...

  8. #8

    Blackass by A. Igoni Barrett
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    'Blackass' by A. Igoni Barrett is a modern take on the Metamorphosis theme, set in contemporary Lagos, Nigeria. The protagonist, Furo Wariboko, wakes up one morning to find himself transformed from a black Nigerian man into a white man with red hair and green eyes. The narrative explores the challenges, privileges, and prejudices faced by Furo as he navigates this new identity, shedding light on themes of race, class, privilege, and social dynamics in Nigerian society. The book delves into the complexities of personal identity, social responsibility, and the fluidity of gender and sexuality, all within the vibrant backdrop of Lagos.

    The writing style of 'Blackass' has been described as sharp, humorous, and thought-provoking. The narrative flits between Furo's perspective and that of another character he encounters, providing a lens through which to view Furo's journey of self-discovery and societal critique. The novel touches on various topics such as identity, race relations, gender dynamics, and social and economic disparities, using satire and irony to comment on issues of exceptionalism, pretense, and privilege.

    Furo Wariboko awoke this morning to find that dreams can lose their way and turn up on the wrong side of sleep. He was lying nude in bed, and when he raised his head a fraction he could see his alabas...

  9. #9

    The Impressionist by Hari Kunzru
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    'The Impressionist' by Hari Kunzru is a novel set in various regions of the British Empire during the WWI era, including India, England, France, and Africa. The story follows the protagonist, Pran Nath, a character who continually changes his identity to adapt and survive in different environments. Kunzru's writing style delves into themes of race, class, gender, and identity, offering a narrative that explores the complexities of colonialism and self-discovery.

    The book portrays the journey of Pran Nath as he navigates through different phases of his life, from a privileged upbringing in India to surviving on the streets and eventually reinventing himself in various roles across different countries. Kunzru's storytelling captures the essence of early 20th-century India, the colonial era, and the challenges faced by individuals in a society marked by racial and social divides. The narrative unfolds with a blend of humor, satire, and introspection, making it a thought-provoking exploration of personal and cultural values.

    ONE AFTERNOON, THREE YEARS AFTER THE BEGINNING of the new century, red dust that was once rich mountain soil quivers in the air. It falls on a rider who is making slow progress through the ravines tha...

  10. #10
    Theodore Rex
    Book 2 in the series:Theodore Roosevelt

    Theodore Rex - Theodore Roosevelt by Edmund Morris
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    'Theodore Rex' by Edmund Morris is a detailed exploration of Theodore Roosevelt's presidency, highlighting his accomplishments and challenges during his time in office. The book delves into Roosevelt's political initiatives, including labor laws, natural resource conservation, and international diplomacy, providing a thorough look at his impactful leadership style. The narrative captures Roosevelt's larger-than-life personality and his significant contributions to shaping 20th-century America.

    I see that Tiddy, Prisidint Tiddy—here’s his health—is th’ youngest prisidint we’ve iver had, an’ some iv th’ pa-apers ar-re wondherin’ whether he’s old enough f’r th’ raysponsibilities iv’ th’ office...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Theodore Roosevelt )

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