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A review by kellyelizabeth27
Ellington Boulevard: A Novel in A-Flat by Adam Langer
4.0
My first apartment in New York City was on 107th between Columbus and Manhattan, a block away from the apartment around which the plot of Ellington Boulevard turns. And let me tell you, what Langer has written is not so much a novel as a field guide to that neighborhood, from the local dive bar to the nearby entrance to Central Park, and everything in between. It's also something of a Cliff's Notes to the last 10-odd years of real estate in up-and-coming neighborhoods in the city. And it's funny (though not as funny as Langer's earlier novel, set in Chicago, [Crossing California:].
I do have a couple of complaints. First, that the characters, especially at first, seem too typecast - but the book has some surprises in store for us there. Second, including parts from the musical that one of the characters is writing is a gimmick that seems somewhat unnecessary. I think it might work if it were more centrally important to the story, or it could go altogether.
If only there were half-stars.... I think this one, while I thoroughly enjoyed it, probably should get only 3.5 upon reflection. Still, if you haven't read any Langer, you're missing out.
I do have a couple of complaints. First, that the characters, especially at first, seem too typecast - but the book has some surprises in store for us there. Second, including parts from the musical that one of the characters is writing is a gimmick that seems somewhat unnecessary. I think it might work if it were more centrally important to the story, or it could go altogether.
If only there were half-stars.... I think this one, while I thoroughly enjoyed it, probably should get only 3.5 upon reflection. Still, if you haven't read any Langer, you're missing out.