A review by samanne
Manhattan Transfer by John Dos Passos

challenging dark emotional funny reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A
• Strong character development? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

It is hard to believe this novel was written in the 1920s.  The form, style and themes are decades ahead of their time.  Snapshots of people in NYC in the 20s post-1914, following characters across the spectrum of rich and poor.  Novel captures the last vestiges of natural area in Manhattan, people struggling to get ahead, people who came to NYC from the farmlands of the U.S. as well as immigrants.  Thieves both rich and poor.