A review by ajnel
Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead

dark emotional funny mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

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

4.0

The first book in the Ray Carney series of Whitehead's historical crime fictions set in Harlem circa late fifties and early sixties. The novel introduces us to Carney, a furniture salesman, who supplements his business by selling the odd "slightly used" item.  The novel is broken into timepieces, as always beautifully written in true Whitehead style.  This "Harlem crime noir" offers everything from heists to robberies from the most infamous Manhattan family centered around Carney, who edges a future for his family against the risk of dealing with "dangerous men" .  One would be forgiven for assuming Whitehead grew up in Harlem in the time period.  The descriptive writing is effortless, personal and rings true in every regard. A crime novel in the Southern noir style but also a deep reflection on everyday life in Harlem during the mentioned era.