Native Son
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4.3 • 186 Ratings
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- $14.99
Publisher Description
“If one had to identify the single most influential shaping force in modern Black literary history, one would probably have to point to Wright and the publication of Native Son.” – Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Right from the start, Bigger Thomas had been headed for jail. It could have been for assault or petty larceny; by chance, it was for murder and rape. Native Son tells the story of this young black man caught in a downward spiral after he kills a young white woman in a brief moment of panic.
Set in Chicago in the 1930s, Richard Wright's powerful novel is an unsparing reflection on the poverty and feelings of hopelessness experienced by people in inner cities across the country and of what it means to be black in America.
This edition of Native Son includes an essay by Wright titled, How "Bigger" was Born, along with notes on the text.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Wright's classic 1940 novel about a young African-American man who murders a white woman in 1930s Chicago is a truly remarkable literary accomplishment. Peter Francis James has never been better, bringing the character of Bigger Thomas to life in a profound and moving performance that is as touching as it is truthful. James's powerful baritone demands to be heard, captivating listeners with Wright's realistic portrayal of life in the inner city, capturing the mood of each and every scene. With moderate yet believable variations in tone and dialect for each of the characters, James ignites the collective imagination of his audience. Wright's novel is real, raw and brutally honest and James's reading follows suit.
Customer Reviews
A True Classic
Here is a book that I never get tired of reading and would highly recommend to readers of any age. While the tone is dark at times, the author captures the racial tension of an America of yesteryear, yet carefully allows the reader to see the humanity of a deeply conflicted individual. Bigger Thomas is one of the most unique and interesting characters created in the 20th century. A must read.
Blew me away!
I read this book for summer reading, and let me tell you that I usually do not enjoy reading. However, I LOVED this book! It is such a good book and I did not want to put it down. I recommend it for people who like suspense!
The reality
The books sets feeling, emotion and understanding of a young boy portrayed with angered towards a life unfit for him. Though his actions are ruthless and careless they seem justified. It brings forth emotions and imagery that make you feel the intensity of the setting and character and bring forth emotions that enhance your understanding of a depressing time for people of color. The book did a great job giving detailed descriptions allowing the comprehension of scenery and the feeling of the characters as well as bring frustration and mixed feelings towards the actions played. I enjoyed reading this overall.