I love Colson Whitehead's writing, and I enjoyed his character, Ray Carney, introduced in Harlem Shuffle. Now Carney is back and trying to stay out of trouble in Crook Manifesto.
1971 - Ray Carney is out of the stolen goods business. His furniture store is thriving and life is good. But his daughter wants to see the Jackson 5. Carney checks in with an old police contact, a fixer. But Munson has his own favors to ask of Carney and staying out of the game gets a lot more complicated - and deadly. (cover)
1973 Carney's best long time buddy, Pepper, takes on a side gig doing security for a Blaxploitation shoot in Harlem. It's a freaky world, and we follow Pepper on a trip to the underbelly. Adversaries underestimate the seasoned crook - to their regret. (cover)
1976 Our crooked duo, Carney and Pepper, have to battle their way through a crumbling metropolis run by the shady, the violent, and the utterly corrupted. (cover)
Whitehead captures the era in Harlem. He writes with humor, his characters are loyal family/friend people, and you can't help but root for Carney to find his way.
Never heard of this author. Always appreciate your reviews, Joanne.
ReplyDeleteOh my! Run to the library now!!
DeleteNever heard of him either. Is this one story or an anthology?
ReplyDeleteIt is one stand alone book starring Ray Carney and associates. He was featured in Harlem Shuffle too. Whitehead’s writing is superb. He’s literary without being too out there, if you know what I mean.
DeleteHi Joanne - thanks for highlighting him - I hadn't realised who he is ... though knew about his work 'The Underground Railroad' ... yes definitely an author to look up. Thanks - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteI have been praising him for awhile now.
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